Man charged after death of 'loving grandfather' found unconscious in Leicester park

A 33-year-old man has appeared in court, charged with manslaughter after the death of a man found in a Leicester park.

James McKeown, 62, also known as Jimmy and Spider, was found unconscious in Beaumont Leys Park on Monday evening, around 6.20pm.

He was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

Joshua Moore, 33, of Fowler Close in Beaumont Leys, has been charged with manslaughter.

He appeared at Leicester Magistrates Court on Wednesday, and spoke only to confirm his name, age and date of birth.

An application was made for him to be released on bail. But the judge refused bail and Moore was remanded back into custody.

He will next appear at Leicester Crown Court on 26 May for a plea hearing.

In a statement, Mr McKeown’s family described him as a "loving father, brother, partner and grandfather" who had lived in the area for nearly 20 years.

"To say that the events have changed our lives forever is an understatement," the family said.

"Jimmy was well known in the community, affectionately known to many as Spider. We would ask that people respect our privacy and give us the time to come to terms with what has happened."

Leicestershire Police is appealing for any information about the incident.

An area within the park was cordoned off while officers carried out enquiries.

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