Daniel Hardcastle has today (Friday 1st September) appeared at Blackpool Magistrates Court charged with the murder of a two-year-old boy.

Hardcastle, 30, of Central Drive, Blackpool spoke only to confirm his identity and that he understood the proceedings during today’s hearing.

This appearance in Court follows Police being called to an address on Central Drive on 19th August by paramedics after a two-year-old boy was found unresponsive. The child, later named as Damian Russell, was taken to hospital for treatment, but sadly died from his injuries on Monday 21st August.

Magistrates remanded Hardcastle in custody saying the case could only be dealt with by the Crown Court. Hardcastle will make his first appearance at Preston Crown Court next week, on Tuesday 5th September.