A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering his brother in law.

Shane Manson, 22, was sent in custody for trial at Preston Crown Court where he will next appear on February 12 accused of murdering Eamonn McDonagh, 17.

Manson's last address was given as Mill Hill Street, Blackburn.

Peter King, defending, did not apply for bail.

Manson is married to 17-year-old Mr McDonagh's sister.

A post mortem examination has revealed that Mr McDonagh died of head injuries after being found in the early hours of last Wednesday following a night out.

Mr McDonagh lived in a caravan on waste land behind the Moorings pub, Hollin Bank Street.

He was found just 25 yards from his home and taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary where he died.