A MAN will appear in court today charged with manslaughter.

David Brent Lilley, 36, was found dead in the back yard of a house in Maple Terrace, Shiney Row, near Washington, Wearside, at about 10.30pm on Sunday.

Mr Lilley, a warehouseman, from Thirlmere Crescent, Penshaw, lived with his partner and their eight-year-old daughter.

Kevin Brian King, 29, of Maple Terrace, was yesterday charged with manslaughter.

He is due to appear before Houghton Magistrates' Court this morning.

A second man who had been arrested in connection with Mr Lilley's death was released without charge.