A MAN appeared in court yesterday charged with murdering a former prisoner 23 years ago.
Stanley Close (65) was found strangled in his home in the Willowfield area of east Belfast in August 1986.
David Mayberry Wallace (50) originally from Northern Ireland but with an address in Shaw Street, Bury, in England, appeared at Belfast Magistrate’s court charged over the pensioner’s murder.
Mr Wallace, who spoke only to confirm he understood the charge, was remanded in custody until May 21st after a detective told the court he believed he could connect him to the killing.
He was arrested in the Manchester area on Tuesday and taken to Northern Ireland for questioning after a joint operation between the PSNI and the Greater Manchester Police.
PSNI Det Sgt Andrew Sossich said police had yet to establish a motive for the killing. – (PA)