A man has made his first court appearance charged with the murder of 'gentle giant' David Read.

Mr Read, 50, was found dead in his flat on Leamington Road, Blackburn, on Wednesday, June 7, after police were called at 11.38am to reports of a sudden death.

Emergency services attended and found the body David. A post-mortem examination showed he died of multiple injuries.

A man was arrested over the weekend and yesterday, Tuesday, June 13, he made his first appearance in court after being charged with murder late on Sunday.

Mohammed Ali Khan, 34, of Preston New Road, Blackburn, made his brief appearance before Blackburn Magistrates' Court, and was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court where he will appear tomorrow, Thursday, June 15.

He spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the short hearing.

After his death, in a tribute Mr Read's family said: 

 David’s family said: “David was a lovely caring man and had a strong bond with his parents.

"He was known as the gentle giant and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.”

Lancashire Police continue to appeal for information to assist their investigation, with Detective Chief Inspector Mark Haworth-Oates, of the Force Major Investigation Team, adding: “Although a man has now been charged, we are continuing to appeal for witnesses.

"We want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious during Tuesday and Wednesday in the Leamington Road area or has CCTV that we are not already aware of.

"Please also get in touch if you knew David and can help us piece together the days leading to his death as this may help the continued progression of the investigation."

Anyone with information is asked to report it online at the Lancashire Police website or call police on 101, quoting log 653 of June 7.

Information can also be passed on anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.