Man appears in court charged with murder of brother after suspected stabbing in Blyth

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of his brother in Blyth.

James Rutherford, of no fixed abode, appeared at South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court, in Bedlington, on Wednesday 3 August.

The 34-year-old has been charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

Officers received a report of concern for the welfare of a man in the Duke’s Gardens area of the town at around 3.45am on Tuesday 2 August.

Emergency services attended the scene and found Gary Wilkie, 46, of Blyth, who had suffered injuries consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.

He was treated at the scene but died a short time later.

Rutherford was remanded in custody to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday 5 August.

Detective Inspector David Johnson, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is clearly a very serious incident which has been devastating for Gary’s family.

"Our thoughts are with them at this terrible time, and we will continue to offer them any support they need.

"I would ask that their privacy is respected as they attempt to come to terms with the events of the last 24 hours.

"I would also like to thank everybody who has so far assisted with this investigation, including our blue-light partners as well as the public who have come forward with information.

"I would continue to appeal for anybody who saw anything suspicious in this area at the time, who has not already done so, to get in touch with police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers online or by calling 101.

Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To know...