Man pleads guilty to the murder of Wigan student Ellen Higginbottom
A man has today pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to the murder of Wigan student Ellen Higginbottom.
Mark Steven Buckley, 51, of New Hall Lane, Preston, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to the murder of 18-year-old Ellen Higginbottom in Orrell.
The court heard the murder was premeditated and there was a sexual motive.
He will return to court on Thursday, September 14, for sentencing.
David Steele, who appeared alongside Buckley in the dock, entered no plea to perverting the course of justice and handling stolen goods.
He will return to court for a pre-trial preparation hearing on October 6.
More to follow ...