Blackpool man Conor Clarkson admits killing his grandma

A man has admitted killing a caring and devoted grandmother.
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Conor Clarkson, 25, of West Park Drive, Blackpool, appeared before Preston Crown Court by video link from Guild Lodge psychiatric hospital in Preston, where he is being detained.

He spoke only to confirm his identity and to enter his pleas.

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Police were called around 6pm on Wednesday, September 4, to an address on West Park Drive in Blackpool.

Police at the scene at West Park Avenue in SeptemberPolice at the scene at West Park Avenue in September
Police at the scene at West Park Avenue in September

Emergency services attended and found the body of the defendant's grandmother.

Marlene McCabe, 71, from Blackpool, had suffered serious head and facial injuries and was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

A Home Office post mortem examination has been carried out and a cause of death of head injuries was recorded.

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He entered a guilty plea to manslaughter and a not guilty plea to murder, which was accepted by the prosecution.

Judge Robert Altham set his sentencing date for May 7, and provisions are being made for the grieving family to be able to listen to the hearing.

Marlene's family have previously spoken of her devotion to her family.

In a tribute they said: “The family are devastated at the tragic circumstances surrounding their loved ones death.

"Marlene was a kind, caring mother and devoted Granny who will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives she touched.

"The family ask for privacy at this sad time.”

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