Blackburn fire: Man in court over Christopher Proctor death

Police said Christopher Proctor died before the fire in his home started

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of an 88-year-old man whose body was found in his Lancashire home after a fire.

Christopher Proctor was found in the bungalow in Pleckgate Road, Blackburn, just before 04:00 GMT on 10 November.

Anthony Curry, 38, of Gretna Walk, Blackburn, appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with murder, arson, theft and burglary.

He was remanded in custody and his case was sent to Preston Crown Court.

He is due to appear there on 23 November.

Clare Randall, 30, also of Gretna Walk, Blackburn, appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with theft.

She was granted conditional bail and is also due to appear before Preston Crown Court on 23 November.

Lancashire Police said Mr Proctor had died before the fire began.

His bank book and wallet were recovered from separate drains in the area and officers found CCTV showing somebody attempting to withdraw cash from his bank.