A man has denied the murder of a dog owner whose body was found when police were called to reports of a labradoodle theft.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police went to the home of Donald Patience, 45, in response to reported sightings of his pet being taken from his address.

Mr Patience’s body was discovered as police searched the property in Ainsworth Road in Bury, Greater Manchester, on 22 August.

On Friday Ian Connell, 39, appeared at Manchester Crown Court where he pleaded not guilty to murder. He also denied manslaughter.

Connell was remanded in custody ahead of a pre-trial review, which is scheduled for 15 January 2024. A trial date has been provisionally set for 12 February.

Mr Patience – known affectionately as Prentice – was remembered by his family as a “much-loved son, brother and father” who would be “sorely missed” following his death.

The labradoodle was recovered and placed into the care of relevant authorities, police said.

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