Two boys who beat Alan Willson in Worthing park have sentences reduced

Brothers George and Archie Tilley, who were aged 13 and 14 at the time of the attack, were convicted of grievous bodily harm and jailed for 12 years after the attack on Alan Willson on April 4, 2021.

Both Tilley brothers appealed against their sentences at the Royal Courts of Justice today and it was agreed the previous sentences issued were “manifestly excessive” and did not give sufficient reduction for the boys’ age and immaturity.

The sentences were reduced by two and a half years, meaning both sentences are now nine and a half years in total, to comprise six and a half years in custody and three years on extended licence.

• READ MORE: Family of man left permanently brain damaged in log attack speak of 'life sentence'

The judge acknowledged the assault in Longcroft Park, Worthing, was vicious and persistent, and caused Mr Willson catastrophic injuries.

He also acknowledged the complete absence of remorse from either offender. However, the court is bound by legal guidelines when sentencing children and young people, and it was deemed the previous sentence did not sit within these guidelines.

DCI Simon Dunn, Senior Investigating Officer in the case, said: "This was a truly horrific assault on a man whose life will never be the same as a result.

Archie Tilley, behind, and George Tilley, front, during a previous court appearance

"We were delighted to secure the conviction for Alan and his family last year, to know that those responsible for this devastating crime would be held accountable for their actions. Even with this reduction, their custodial sentence will still run until the end of 2028.

“We respect the decision made by the court today, and continue to support Alan and his family through this difficult time."

Archie Tilley had two previous convictions for three offences.

George Tilley had five convictions for 18 offences.

Alan Willson worked in care before the attack

Alan’s wife Annie Willson previously told The Argus of the “life sentence” her family was enduring and the “torture” her husband goes through.

His injuries include being blind in one eye, a shattered orbital bone, fractured skull, brain injuries, broken ribs and shattered jaw after being hit repeatedly with the 2.7kg log.

She said: “I have nothing now, no family holidays. I try to bring him out to Costa, but he gets tired. We used to come here all the time together.”

Harry Furlong, 18, of Horsham was jailed for 20 months for his part in beating Mr Willson so badly his family were told he may not survive.