A significant update has been given after the death of a man in the North East last year as police confirm somebody has been charged.

Roy Clayton died after a suspected assault in Woodhead Road in Prudhoe, Northumberland, in December last year.

At the time, Northumbria Police launched an investigation after the 79-year-old sustained a serious neck injury consistent with an assault. He died four days later.

Now, Northumbria Police has confirmed Gary Anderson, 49, has now been officially charged with manslaughter in connection with the death.

Anderson, also from Woodhead Road, Prudhoe, is now due to appear before Newcastle Magistrates' Court on November, 16.

Read more: Roy Clayton died after disturbance in Woodhead Road, Prudhoe

David Johnson, detective chief inspector of Northumbria Police, said: “Clearly this is a serious incident that has left Roy’s family absolutely devastated.

"Our thoughts remain with them and we will continue to offer any support they need.

“I would like to thank Roy’s family for their cooperation and patience over the last 10 months, as well as the wider community who have assisted our investigation at every opportunity.

“With one suspect now charged and due to appear in court, it is imperative that everyone refrains from any speculation – both on social media and in the community – that could jeopardise the live legal proceedings.”

Police attended an address on Woodhead Road in Prudhoe at 9:40 am on December, 10 following a report of a disturbance.

Police said three officers had attended the scene in December after there had been reports of a disturbance.

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An investigation has been ongoing ever since the incident and one man was arrested in connection with Roy’s death.

Anyone with information who has yet to come forward is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20211210-0247.

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