A WOMAN has appeared in court accused of murdering a pensioner.

Deanha Leanne Neely, 32, is accused of killing 71-year-old Derek Taylor at an industrial unit in Cross Fold, Blackburn.

It comes as Mr Taylor’s family paid tribute to a man ‘with a heart made of gold’ and spoke of their shock and devastation at his sudden death.

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They also released a photograph of the father and brother they affectionately called ‘Twirl’ because of his dancing moves in his younger days.

Neely, a former Burnley schoolgirl, of no fixed address, appeared before Blackburn Magistrates yesterday where she spoke only to confirm her name and date of birth.

She was remanded in custody to appear at Preston Crown Court this morning.

She has not yet entered a plea.

Neely, who formerly lived in Hollingreave Road, Burnley and is understood to have attended Habergham High School, is alleged to have murdered Mr Taylor between December 31 and January 18.

Police said Mr Taylor’s body was discovered in the industrial unit just off Haslingden Road, at 7pm last Wednesday. It is understood he had been living at the property in a converted coach.

A second woman, aged 34, from Great Harwood who was also arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without charge.

Paying tribute, Mr Taylor’s family, said: “We the family of Derek Taylor, known to many as Twirl, are devastated at the shocking news surrounding the death of a father and brother.

“He was a character both him and his coach. He had a big heart made of gold and will be greatly missed.”

Mr Taylor’s friends also paid tribute on social media.

Pat Cheshire said: “RIP Derek. A lovely friend. A lovely man. We will miss you. Always in our hearts.”

Leeanne Duxbury said: “RIP Derek. Love goes out to the Taylor family.”

Aggie Howe said: “RIP. God bless his family. So sad.”

Melissa Moorhouse said: “Poor man. RIP.”

Carla said: “God Bless you Derek. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends at this very sad and difficult time. RIP.”

Police said Mr Taylor’s body was discovered in the industrial unit just off Haslingden Road, at 7pm last Wednesday. It is understood he had been living at the property in a converted coach.

A second woman, aged 34, from Great Harwood, who was also arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without charge.