A Darlington pub has been stripped of its alcohol licence after police identified 'significant licensing management failings' in the lead up to the alleged murder of Leanne Park.
The 44-year-old mum and care worker was found dead in a flat above The Greyhound pub on Parkgate after emergency crews were called at 9.15pm on Wednesday, September 23.
Durham Police previously applied for the licences of The Greyhound and the Black Swan, also on Parkgate, to be reviewed following the investigation into the mum's death.
Leanne Park was found dead above The Greyhound pub (Image: DURHAM POLICE)
At Monday’s meeting (October 26) of the Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee, members considered a review of the premises licence for The Greyhound and decided to revoke its licence.
The Greyhound pub, Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
The licence holder did not attend the meeting.
This means the decision can be appealed within 21 days. However, the interim suspension already in place will remain effective while any appeal is considered, meaning the premises cannot sell alcohol during that period.
The Black Swan, Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Papers prepared as part of The Greyhound licensing process said the police investigation had "highlighted significant licencing management failings in the period prior to this crime".
The Northern Echo understands Ms Park had been in both pubs in the hours before her death.
Judge Francis Laird KC, the Recorder of Middlesbrough, said: “I will adjourn your case for trial and will be tried by a High Court Judge, yet to be determined.”
Bell was remanded in custody until his trial on March 8, 2027.
A 27-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed.
Floral tributes for Leanne, who her family called the “best mam, nana, daughter and friend” were left outside The Greyhound following her death.
Floral tributes at the scene (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
In a statement, her family said: "She was loved by everyone and would do anything for anyone.
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"She was the life and soul of the party and loved to dance.
"We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family.
"We are grateful for all the kind messages and the support since her death. We ask that everyone remembers her for the kind-hearted woman she was."
Leanne's funeral will take place at Darlington Crematorium tomorrow.