Retrial ordered in football fan manslaughter case

Image source, Lancashire Police handout

Image caption, Tony Johnson's partner said she was "devastated to have lost my best friend, life partner and soulmate"

Jurors have been unable to reach a verdict in the trial of a man accused of killing a football fan in a post-match brawl.

Tony Johnson, 55, suffered a head injury outside The Manchester pub on Blackpool Promenade in March 2023, following a game between Blackpool and Burnley.

Jake Balmforth, 35, of Tarvin Close, Burnley, denies manslaughter.

After the jury at Preston Crown Court could not agree a verdict, Judge Robert Altham ordered a retrial which is due to begin on 28 April.

In a tribute shortly after the grandfather's death, Mr Johnson's partner said she was "devastated to have lost my best friend, life partner and soul mate".

She added: "We all, as a family, are so heartbroken and our lives are never going to be the same."

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