A 21-year-old was last night charged with the murder of a homeless man.

Brian Kearney, of Morgan Street, in Southwick, Sunderland, was charged with the murder of Barry Sewell.

Mr Sewell 49, of no fixed address, was found in Queens Road, Sunderland, at about 2am on Wednesday.

Yesterday, forensic officers were still combing the area for evidence.

A 30-year-old man, who was arrested on Wednesday with Mr Kearney, was last night released without charge.

Mr Kearney will appear at Sunderland Magistrates' Court this morning.

Police are still appealing for witnesses, or anyone familiar with the area where Mr Sewell's body was found, to contact them on 0191-454 7555, extension 66202.