Police charge man, 51, with rape and murder after 26-year-old woman is found dead 

A 51-year-old man has been charged with the rape and murder of a 26-year-old charity worker who was found dead in the Manchester area on Thursday.

Lizzy McCann from Dukinfield, Greater Mancheter, died at a property on Manchester Road, Ashton Under Lyne.

Simon Goold, 51, of Manchester Road, has been charged with murder, rape and assault by penetration by Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates today.

According to Lizzy’s social media, she previously worked at charity Barnardo’s and studied Health and Social Care at Tameside College.

Lizzy, 26, appears to have been a Manchester City fan, as well as enjoying Star Trek

Lizzy had previously worked for the children’s charity Barnardo’s

She has previously spoken out in support of mental health issues and autism awareness week.

She appears to have been a Manchester City fan whose hobbies included seeing friends and Star Trek.

Detective Chief Inspector Liam Boden, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: ‘On behalf of all involved in this investigation, I send condolences to Lizzy’s family. Specially trained officers have been deployed to liaise with them.

‘We are aware of the impact the news of Lizzy’s death has had on the community in the last 24 hours so extra officers remain in the area for reassurance.

‘Though a suspect has been charged, our enquiries are ongoing so we continue to appeal for anyone with information which may assist us to contact ourselves or Crimestoppers, anonymously, as soon as possible.’

Anyone with information should contact police via 0161 856 6777 quoting 763 25/08/22. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.