Man remanded in custody charged with murder after court hearing

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 44 year-old man.

Tom Gomm, from Tyldesley, Wigan, died following reports of an assault in Boothstown, Salford. Emergency services were called to Irvine Avenue, near Worsley, at around 8.15pm on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

Jack Naylor, 22, from Atherton, Wigan, has been charged with murder, assault by beating, two counts of assaulting an emergency worker and a racially aggravated public order offence, the Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed.

The case was heard before a judge at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday. Mr Naylor appeared via video link from Forest Bank Prison in Salford for the brief plea and trial preparation hearing.

He spoke only to confirm his identity and that he could hear the proceedings. No pleas to the charges he faces were entered.

The case was adjourned until April 14 at the same court. Mr Naylor was remanded in custody and there was no application for bail. A trial date has been set for June, the court heard.

Following Mr Gomm’s death, tributes flooded in for the motorbike enthusiast and mechanic. Friends described him as a 'legend' and an 'amazing bloke'.

James Street Garage, in Tyldesley, also posted a tribute on social media, which read: "To those who really knew him, Tom was a true gentleman, a kind and genuine person with Tyldesley running though his veins.

"Tom was taken from us far too soon, and my heart goes out to his family during this incredibly difficult time. His memory will live on with all who had the honour of knowing him. Rest in peace, Gommy."