Nellie’s death: man in court

Reporter: Lewis Jones
Date published: 21 February 2012


A MAN was appearing in court today charged with the death of Nellie Geraghty.

Mark Royle (37), of no fixed address, but previously from Shaw, has been charged with manslaughter and robbery.

Great-grandmother Nellie (79) was found in an alleyway near her home in Elizabeth Grove home on Thursday, November 24.

Nellie, was still clutching the strap of her handbag, which contained the still-missing ashes of her husband Frank, when she was found at around midday.

The incident prompted a flood of support from the local community.

Nellie was rushed to the Royal Oldham Hospital with serious head injuries, but died late the next day.

Det Chief Insp Joanne Rawlinson said: “I would like to thank the people in Shaw for their continued support and help with this investigation.

“It is very much appreciated by both the investigation team and Nellie’s family.

“The ashes of Nellie’s husband Frank are still missing, and as such our work will continue in Shaw for some time.

Police are still searching for a mountain bike seen in the area at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information on this or any other aspect of the case can call police on 0161-856 5448 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.