POLICE have named a man who died in hospital after being found at the bottom of a staircase of a flat in North Yorkshire as Kirk William Harland.

A man in his 40s is appearing in court charged with murder following the death of Mr Harland, 46, of Whitby.

The victim was found at the bottom of a staircase of a flat at the Esplanade, in Whitby, on September 29, North Yorkshire Police said.

He had suffered serious head injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remained in a critical condition, the force added.

It said he died in hospital just under two weeks later.

Mr Harland’s family is currently being supported by specially-trained officers.

The suspect was initially arrested and released on bail in connection with the incident to allow further investigations to take place.

Following further inquiries after Mr Harland’s death, a decision was made to charge the suspect with murder on Friday.

The charge was accepted by the CPS and he was remanded to appear for his first hearing at York Magistrates Court on Saturday.

The case has been sent to Leeds Crown Court.

Mr Harland’s family say he was known locally as ‘Captain’. They have urged anyone with information about his death to come forward and help the police.

Anyone with information about the incident that happened at the Esplanade on September 29 which they have not yet shared with detectives should call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for Scarborough CID.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote incident number 12190182584.