Trio accused of murder after fire

Barry Nicholson (left) and Trevor Richardson were among the victims

Three people, including two teenagers, have appeared in court charged with the murder of three men who died in an arson attack.

Trevor Richardson, 37, Kane McTell, 53, and 67-year-old Barry Nicholson died in the fire at a house on Albert Road, Sheffield, on Friday.

Michelle Lambe, 35, of Brooklyn Road, Sheffield, and two boys aged 17 and 14 were remanded by Sheffield magistrates.

They are next due to appear at Sheffield Crown Court on 14 January.

All three defendants are charged with three counts of murder and one of attempted murder.

Mrs Lambe, a mother-of-four, and the 14-year-old, are also accused of wounding Mr McTell with intent at the house on Albert Road on the morning of New Year's Day.

Mrs Lambe and the 17-year-old were refused bail and remanded in custody.

A fourth man remains in hospital with spinal injuries

The 14-year-old was remanded into secure local authority accommodation.

In a statement issued by police, Mr Richardson's sister Brenda Peters said he was a "friendly, outgoing person with a heart of gold who would do his best to help anyone.

"He was particularly close to Barry, whom he looked on as a father figure.

"Trevor adored his children and was devoted to his family and girlfriend."

Mr Nicholson's family said he would be "dearly missed by all of us".

They said: "He had a big heart and would help anyone who asked him to do so."

Police said the fire started downstairs in the mid-terrace house. Neighbours reported seeing two people jump through windows to escape, while firefighters in breathing apparatus pulled two others out.

Mr Richardson died at the scene and Mr Nicholson was pronounced dead in hospital a short time later. Mr McTell died two days later.

A fourth man who was injured in the fire remains in hospital with serious spinal injuries. His condition is not thought to be life-threatening.