Murder inquiry continues as police name victim

Mr Nelson (34), who was also known as Craig Preston, was found dead on the moors of the A628 at Woodhead Tunnels at around 11am on Monday.

A post-mortem examination found he died as a result of head injuries and detectives have launched a murder inquiry.

Det Chief Insp Steve Handley, who is leading the inquiry, said: “We’re in the process of piecing together Craig’s movements in the days leading up to his death. Did you see him in the days before? Did you speak to him or know what his plans were?

“I would urge anyone who knew him, or had contact with him before his death, to come forward as any small piece of information could be crucial.

“I’d also like to hear from anyone who saw a vehicle, or anyone acting suspiciously, on the slip road off the A628 or the car park near Woodhead Tunnels at any time between 7am on Saturday, August 20 and 11am on Monday, August 22.

“We have a dedicated team of detectives working hard to find out what happened to Craig. We are providing support and regular updates to his family; they deserve to know what happened to him, so please come forward if you can help.”

A police cordon was put in place at Mr Nelson’s address in Montgomery Square last night while police carried out enquiries.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 819 of 23 August 2016. 

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.