A WEST Cumbrian man has appeared in court accused of murdering his elder brother.

Cumbria police confirmed earlier this week that a 39-year-old man found dead at an address at Garnet Crescent in Salterbeck had been identified as George Leon Blaney, who lived at that property and was known to family and friends as Leon.

Officers and paramedics had attended on Tuesday after the report of a sudden death was received at 1.25pm.

Sean Blaney, 37, appeared before magistrates in Carlisle this morning (June 27).

Blaney, of Shore Terrace, Salterbeck, faces one charge which alleges that he murdered his brother between Sunday (June 21) and Wednesday (June 24).

Dark-haired Blaney, wearing a grey jumper as he appeared in the dock alongside two security officers, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and nationality during a hearing which lasted less than five minutes.

Prosecutor Tom Snape, who outlined some brief details to two magistrates, said: “Mr Blaney faces a allegation of murdering his brother.”

Mr Snape also told the court: “A pathologist suggests there is over 40 injuries to the deceased.”

No plea was entered by Blaney, who was represented by solicitor John Cooper. The case was committed to Carlisle Crown Court, where he will appear before a judge for a preliminary hearing on Monday.

Following Leon Blaney’s death, his family paid tribute to him today by saying: “Leon was a gentle giant and a good friend to many. We have taken comfort from the thousands of messages we have received and we would like to request privacy at this difficult time.”