Man charged with murdering Shirebrook man Andrew Jackson makes first court appearance

Leon Smith, 27, of Alder Way, Shirebrook, appeared before Derby Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, December 16, after he was re-arrested by detectives on Monday.

The body of Mr Jackson, who was 55-years-old and also known as ‘Catman’, was discovered at around 10am on Sunday, January 26, at an allotment, off Prospect Drive.

Since the murder investigation was launched in January this year, nine people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Detective Inspector Chris Marriott, who is leading the investigation said: “This has been a lengthy and complex inquiry but the team has never given up on finding out what happened to Andrew.”

Mr Jackson’s murder caused shock waves throughout the community and residents came together to organise a number of fundraising events to raise money for his funeral costs.

In a heartbreaking statement released after his death, his family said they had ‘joyful memories of being young kids playing together’.

“Andy was just one of those boys who liked to tinker around with electrics and engines. He was a very clever guy and could make something out of nothing,” they said.

“Around the Netherfield area where we grew up he had a lot of friends and if anybody wanted anything fixing, our Andy could do it. Sometimes some of the projects that Andy had been asked to build for people would amaze them.”

Smith will next appear before Derby Crown Court tomorrow (December 16). No plea has yet been entered.

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