Man, 55, charged with murder of 'loving' mum

A man has been charged with the murder of a mother whose family described as someone who would "light up every room".

Clare Burns, 51, was found dead on Monday after officers were called to an address on Queens Road in Harpurhey, Manchester at 04:07 BST.

Leonard Lee Stewart, 55, of Queens Road, Manchester, was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with murder, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

GMP's Professional Standards Directorate have made a voluntarily referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct because of previous contact between police, Ms Burns, and Mr Stewart.

Ms Burns' family said they would "miss her dearly".

In the tribute, they said Ms Burns was a "loving mother, auntie, sister and daughter".

"She was funny, outgoing and a very independent person. She was also kind, generous and friendly to anyone she met.

"Clare would always light up the room she entered, and she was a brilliant friend to many."

Mr Stewart remains in police custody ahead of his next appearance at Manchester City Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

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