A 45-year-old man is set to appear in court after being with the murder of a 48-year-old man.

Police were called shortly before 1pm on Monday (November 8) to Berkeley Close, Nelson, to a call that a man, later identified as 48-year-old Michael James Brierley, was found dead.

It is believed he had been the victim of a sustained assault and suffered multiple serious, chest, leg, arm and head injuries. Work is ongoing to establish his exact cause of death.

Following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, Naeem Mustafa, 45, of St Paul’s Road, Nelson, has been charged with murder and S20 wounding, which relates to a separate female victim.

He is due to appear at Lancashire Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Saturday, November 12).

Jodie Clough, 33, of Brown Street West, Colne has been charged with assisting an offender and will also appear at court tomorrow.

A 41-year-old man from Brierfield arrested on suspicion of murder has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses and are particularly keen to hear from anybody who saw anyone entering or leaving 10 Berkeley Close between Sunday, November 7, and Monday, November 8.

They also want to hear from anybody with information on Mr Brierley’s movements in the days leading up to his death.

Det Ch Insp Allen Davies said: “We are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to Mr Brierley’s death and I would appeal for anybody with information which could assist our investigation to get in contact with the police.

“Although we have secured charges, our enquiries remain very much ongoing.

“Mr Brierley’s family have been informed of the latest developments and they are continuing to be supported by specially trained officers.

“My thoughts remain with them at this extremely difficult time.”

Information can be reported by calling 101 quoting incident reference 623 of November 8.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached in confidence on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.