Man in court charged with murdering father

A man accused of murdering his father just days before Christmas has appeared in court.

Police were called to Fell Close, in Silloth, Cumbria, on Monday at about 05:35 GMT where they discovered the body of 73-year-old Stanley Smith.

Brian James Stanley Smith, 33, of Acredales, Abbeytown, has been charged with murdering Mr Smith on Sunday.

He appeared at Carlisle Magistrates' Court earlier and spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

Mr Smith remains remanded in custody and will next appear at Carlisle Crown Court on Monday 29 December.

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