Lee Irving murder: Two men appear in court charged with killing vulnerable disabled man

James Wheatley and Barry Imray will appear before Newcastle Crown Court

Lee Irving, 24, who had learning difficulties, was found dead on Saturday morning (PA)

Two men have appeared in court charged with murdering a vulnerable disabled man.

James Wheatley, 28, and Barry Imray, 31, both from Newcastle, appeared at North Tyneside magistrates’ court accused of killing Lee Irving.

The pair spoke only to confirm their names and were remanded in custody to appear before Newcastle Crown Court on 11 June. Mr Imray faces a further charge of perverting justice.

Mr Irving, 24, of Camperdown, East Denton, was described by Northumbria Police as having learning difficulties and was found dead in Fawdon, Newcastle, on Saturday morning.

Two men, aged 50 and 23, and two women, aged 50 and 20, who were also arrested have been bailed pending further inquiries.

James Wheatley arriving at North Tyneside magistrates’ court in North Shields on Tuesday (PA)

A statement from Mr Irving’s family described him as “a wonderful young man” who was “loved by many”.

The statement added: “He will be very sadly missed by all who knew him.

“What we have lost is irreplaceable and we must live with our loss every day. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us at this devastating time. Lee will always remain in our hearts and thoughts.”

Press Association