Suspected paedophile killed

Greater Manchester Police are investigating the murder

A suspected paedophile awaiting trial for indecency offences against two young boys has been found battered to death in his own home.

George Crawford was dead at his home in the Kirkholt area of Rochdale, Greater Manchester, on Friday evening.

The 64-year-old was due to appear before Manchester Crown Court next month charged with 10 indecency offences. He was pleading not guilty.

Post mortem tests revealed he died from massive head injuries, a spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said.

'Open-minded'

He said it was too early to know whether Mr Crawford's murder is linked to the trial.

The indecency offences were alleged to have taken place in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The spokesman said: "We have to remain open-minded as to the reasons behind his death at this early stage."

Detectives are appealing for information.