Burnley ‘murder victim’ was a ‘happy and kind’ man (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Burnley ‘murder victim’ was a ‘happy and kind’ man

12:00pm Friday 9th November 2012 in News By Tyrone Marshall, Reporter

THE family of suspected Burnley murder victim Brendan Lally have described him as a ‘happy person’ who was ‘always willing to help’.

Mr Lally, 51, of Springfield Bank, was found dead at a house in Reed Street, Burnley, on Hallowe'en.

At 11.20pm officers attended the address following a report of an unconscious man at the terraced house.

On arrival officers found the man at the bottom of the stairs and despite the efforts of police and paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The family of Mr Lally said: “Brendan was a real 'people person' who was always willing to help others and though he did not have a lot he would happily share what he had.

“Brendan really understood the importance of sharing, he had a forgiving nature and was always willing to give people a second chance.

“Brendan was a happy person and was always playing the joker.

“Brendan had a problem with alcohol but had recently sought help with Inspire and this was making a real positive difference in his life for which he was really grateful.

“Brendan took a real interest in family affairs and will be sadly missed by all.”

A post-mortem examination revealed Mr Lally died from head and neck injuries. Further toxicology and histology tests have been requested.

East Lancashire coroner Richard Taylor has adjourned the inquest until a later date.

Five people, including two women, aged 20 and 49, and three men, aged 42, 45 and 48, all from Burnley, were arrested on October 31.

The 20-year-old woman and men aged 45 and 48 were later released without charge.

Yesterday, the remaining 49-year-old woman and 42-year-old man, both from the Burnley area, were rebailed until January 9, pending further inquiries.