A man and a woman from Rochdale have been sentenced for perverting the course of justice after the death of a woman.

Robert Halliwell, 48, of Olney and Melanie Bullen, 52, of Shirburn were sentenced today (November 7) at Minshull Street Crown Court.

The pair will spend two years in prison after pleading guilty to perverting the course of justice.

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The conviction relates to the death of Kerry Newman whose body was found on land off New Barn Lane on July 17 this year.

In the early hours of that day, Halliwell and Bullen were seen moving the mother's body to the area on CCTV.

The 40-year-old's body was then discovered by a member of the public.

Kerry's mother and stepfather described her as "a loving daughter and mother of two boys, taken away from us too soon".

They added: "She is now in heaven with the angels, rest in peace our beautiful girl."

Detective Inspector Emma Hulston, from Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Team, said: “To have left Kerry alone and without seeking medical attention for her was a heartless act.

“I am glad that both Bullen and Halliwell will now see the inside of a prison cell as punishment for their actions.

“A file is now being prepared for the coroner with regards to the death of Kerry.

"Our thoughts remain with her family.”

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