Clint Atkin denies murdering Billingham man Ashley Crooks

Clint Shaun Atkin entered his plea during a short hearing at Teesside Crown Court this morning.

The 44-year-old was arrested after Cleveland Police launched a murder investigation when they were called to Kennedy Gardens in Billingham early on Thursday, May 25 after a man’s body was found.

He was later identified as Ashley Crooks who had recently become a grandfather.

Ashley Crooks (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

Initially, two men, 44 and 56, were arrested on suspicion of Mr Crooks’ murder and were released on bail while enquiries continued.

Judge Paul Watson KC, the Recorder of Middlesbrough, set a trial date of March 4 next year.

Cleveland Police at the scene of the alleged murder in Billingham (Image: STUART BOULTON)

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Adkin, of Rochester Road in Billingham, was remanded in custody until his trial date.

A second man, aged 56, was also re-arrested by Cleveland Police on suspicion of murder and he has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Paying tribute to him at the time, Mr Crooks’ family said: “We are devastated that Ashley has been taken from us so suddenly and cruelly. He is a much-loved member of our family and a very proud dad and - recently - grandad to two gorgeous baby girls.

“We are struggling to come to terms with the shocking circumstances of his death and please ask for privacy at this time.”