Man charged with wounding after body is found in Blackpool back yard set to face trial

Geroge Crawley, 63, was found dead in the back garden of a house in Clifton Avenue in Blackpool

Geoffrey Howard, 63, of Clinton Avenue, stood before magistrates charged with wounding with intent and was remanded in custody.

He was arrested on suspicion of murder after George Crawley, also 63, was found dead at a house in Clinton Avenue in the early hours of Monday.

Howard Green, defending, told the court his client denied the offence.

He will face trial at Preston Crown Court, where he is due to appear on Wednesday, February 21.

Police said Mr Crawley suffered head injuries but a post mortem examination failed to determine a cause of death.

An investigation continues.

Temporary Det Chief Insp Gareth Willis, of Lancashire Police, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts remain with Mr Crawley’s family at this time.

“We are continuing to appeal for information in connection with his death, in particular the movements of both men from around 6pm on Sunday.

“We want to build a picture of the events of Sunday evening into Monday morning and hope the public can assist with our enquiries.

“Any information could prove useful to our investigation.

“Furthermore, we know both men lived together at the address in Clinton Avenue for some time.

“We want to gather more information about the lifestyles they led in the months before Mr Crawley’s death. Again, if you can help us, please contact police.”

Call 101 with any information, quoting WA1801046.