AN MP today backed a plan to create a memorial to teenager Sajjad Mahmood, whose battered body was found in an Accrington lodge.

Groundwork East Lancashire plans to turn Hagg's Lodge, off Hyndburn Road, Accrington, into a beauty spot for anglers, families and schools.

Following a request from Sajjad's family, they have promised to include some sort of sculpture in memory of Sajjad.

Sajjad, 18, of Royds Street, was beaten up by three drug dealers and thrown into the lodge in April 1988.

Three dealers were jailed for his death in 1999 and the Police Complaints Authority is investigating the handling of the case.

Mr Pope said: "This was a tragic case which affected not just his family but many people in my constituency.

"I am pleased that some small good has come out of this and that there will be a memorial to Sajjad.

" I shall make a point of going to the new leisure area as soon as it is completed to pay my respects."

A spokesman for Hyndburn Council said: "We welcome any sort of improvements."