A man accused of murdering Wallsend grandad Lee Santos two days before Christmas is due to stand trial this summer.
Lee from Wallsend was found injured by police at a block of flats on John Street, in Cullercoats, North Tyneside at around 4.30pm on Friday, December 23. The 45-year-old, had suffered what police have described as "injuries consistent with having been caused by a bladed article" and was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
Andrew Peacock, 44, of John Street, Cullercoats, was charged with his murder and appeared at Newcastle Crown Court today (April 6) via video link from Durham Prison, where he pleaded not guilty.
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During the hearing, Peacock received a date for his trial which has been listed for Wednesday, June 28. He will remain in custody.
Following Lee's death his family paid a moving tribute to him that read: "Lee was a loving brother, dad and grandad who still had so many things to look forward to in his life."
Lee grew up in Killingworth with his two brothers, Paul and Daryl, and sisters Lesley and Lisa. He attended the former George Stephenson High School where he played rugby. The lifelong Newcastle United fan was dad to Lauren, 25 and Brandon 24, and also has two grandchildren Damien, seven, and four-year-old Katelyn.
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