A Deepdale man has been charged with the murder of Rosie Darbyshire.

Benjamin Topping, 25, of St George’s Road, Deepdale, is due to appear before Preston Magistrates’ Court on Saturday morning.

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27-year-old Rosie, who was Topping’s girlfriend, was found shortly after 2am on Thursday (7 February) near Pope Lane in Ribbleton.

She was pronounced dead at the scene and Topping was arrested by police in the area a short time later.

Preston Police said due to contact between Rosie and Lancashire Constabulary prior to her death they were referring the matter to the Independent Office of Police Conduct.

A spokesman for the force said: “This is standard practice in such circumstances. It would be inappropriate to go into further detail at this stage.

“Rosie’s family have been visited and made aware of the charge and the referral to the IOPC. They have family liaison officers providing them with support at this extremely difficult and sad time. Our thoughts remain with them.

“We would like to thank the local community for their on-going support.”

Rosie’s family have paid a heartfelt tribute to their daughter and friends of Rosie have set up a fundraising campaign.

Police said they are continuing their investigation and still appealing for information.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 433 of February 7.