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Henry Vincent, 37, died after being stabbed with a screwdriver by Richard Osborn-Brooks while defending his disable wife in the raid in the early ours of Wednesday morning. Mr Osborn-Brooks. who was arrested and later released after the incident, received a public outpouring of support, but one well wisher left a card outside the pensioner’s home saying career criminal Vincent had “a heart of gold”. The card said: “Henry, loved and cared for by many.

“A heart of gold, may god bless you and give you peace in heaven xxx

A heart of gold, may god bless you and give you peace in heaven xxx

“Truley sadly missed (sic).” The card was left alongside a bouquet of gerbera, daisies, chrysanthemums and lilies. It was tied to a post just by the pensioners house. After the botched raid, an accomplice dragged Vincent towards a van parked on the street, before fleeing and leaving him for dead, according to a witness.

JIM BENNETT•GETTY A tribute has been left for the burglar

He was found on Further Green Road by paramedics who rushed him to hospital. He died at around 4am. Police are still hunting for the second man. Officers arrested Mr Osborn-Brooks on suspicion of murder, but on Friday told him no action would be taken, the Metropolitan Police said. Scotland Yard's decision to drop the investigation followed a consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service.

JIM BENNETT The card said he had a 'heart of gold'

Officers have also spoken with the family of Vincent who have been informed of the decision and the reasons for it have been explained to them. Yesterday workmen were seen outside Mr Osborn-Brooks' house boarding up the windows and installing and CCTV cameras amid fears the pensioner could be attacked in retaliation. Detective chief inspector Simon Harding said: "This is a tragic case for all of those involved. "As expected with any incident where someone has lost their life, my officers carried out a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death. "We have approached the CPS for early investigative advice, as required under the guidance. We have received and considered that advice, and, at present - on the evidence available - we will not seek a charging decision. Therefore, no further action will be taken against the man."

JIM BENNETT The card was left with flowers at a post