Man pleads guilty to the murder of Wigan student Ellen Higginbottom

A man has today pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to the murder of Wigan student Ellen Higginbottom.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Sep 2017, 12:47 GMT
Updated 11th Sep 2017, 13:13 GMT
Ellen HigginbottomEllen Higginbottom
Ellen Higginbottom

Mark Steven Buckley, 51, of New Hall Lane, Preston, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to the murder of 18-year-old Ellen Higginbottom in Orrell.

Related: Tributes mount for popular student Ellen

The bells ring out in memory of Ellen

The court heard the murder was premeditated and there was a sexual motive.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He will return to court on Thursday, September 14, for sentencing.

David Steele, who appeared alongside Buckley in the dock, entered no plea to perverting the course of justice and handling stolen goods.

He will return to court for a pre-trial preparation hearing on October 6.

More to follow ...