Family in 'deep shock' over Scarborough man's murder

Mr Virr worked as a landscape gardener

The family of a man murdered in Scarborough have spoken of their "deep shock" over his death.

The body of 48-year-old Gary Francis Virr was found in his ground-floor flat in the Eastborough area of the town on Thursday night.

His father Edwin, 74, said: "We are struggling to come to terms with the way Gary was taken away from us."

John Stamford, 51, has been charged with his murder and remanded to appear at Leeds Crown Court on 12 January.

Mr Virr said his son left behind a son and two daughters.

He added: "Everyone who knew and cared for him is in deep shock.

"All we can do is stay strong for each other and hope that justice is served."