Merseyside Police have released the first photograph of Delia McInerney, a 64-year-old woman whose body was discovered inside a flat in St Helens on Thursday, January 8. The distressing find occurred at a property located in Gerards Court, Hawes Avenue, Clinkham Wood, approximately one kilometre from her home in Anfield, Liverpool.
Heartfelt Tributes to a 'Free Spirit'
In an emotional tribute issued by the police, Delia's sister, Rita McInerney, described her as a "free spirit" who was "intelligent and caring." Rita expressed, "A great artist, a free spirit, really 'out there'. A rebel. Intelligent with a dynamic personality. Kind, caring and helpful. She was well loved as a sister and friend. I will miss her always."
Neighbour's Moving Memories
Friend and neighbour Emma Knight, 45, shared her recollections with the Liverpool Echo, stating, "Delia was such a lovely woman. She was a bit out there, but she was the salt of the earth and would do anything for anyone. She was a free spirit, she was really extravagant, and I got on with her really well. I was pretty close to her. She was whacky and fiery, but she was lovely. She was in her 60s but looked great for her age. I've lived here for 15 years and she'd been here for around 30, so I've known her for a long time."
Murder Charge and Additional Offences
George Christopher Gordon, aged 65 and residing at Gerards Court, Hawes Avenue, Clinkham Wood, St Helens, has been formally charged with the murder of Delia McInerney. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that the alleged murder took place on or before April 12, 2023, indicating the body was found nearly three years after the crime.
In addition to the murder charge, Gordon faces three counts of fraud by false representation, alleged to have occurred between April 2023 and June 2025, and one count of theft related to Ms McInerney. He had previously been charged with preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body and obstructing a coroner in the execution of their duty, appearing before magistrates last month.
Police Investigation Details
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police announced on Saturday, February 7, "A man has been charged with murder following the discovery of a woman's body in Gerards Court, Hawes Avenue, Clinkham Wood, St Helens, on Thursday, January 8. They have also formally identified the victim as 64-year-old Delia McInerney. Delia's family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers at this tragic time."
The CPS stated, "The CPS has today, February 7, charged George Christopher Gordon, 65, of 3 Gerards Court, St Helens with the murder of Delia McInerney, 64, of Douglas Road, Anfield, Liverpool on or before April 12 2023. George Christopher Gordon has also been charged with three counts of fraud and one count of theft in relation to Ms McInerney. The CPS made the decision to charge Mr Gordon after reviewing a file of evidence from Merseyside Police."
Scene of the Discovery
Officers were called to the property at approximately 11.30pm on January 8 following reports of concern for an individual's welfare. Upon arrival, they established a mobile police station alongside several patrol vehicles in the car park adjacent to the apartment complex. A white forensic examination tent was positioned at the building's rear as part of the investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Fair Trial Warning
The CPS emphasised, "The CPS reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Gordon are now active and that he has a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings."
