A Royton man who admitted murdering a 55-year-old local father during a fatal altercation has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 26 years and six months.

David Warren Jack (58), of Plumpton Close, Royton, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday 2 June 2026 after pleading guilty to the murder of Paul Anderson.

Greater Manchester Police were called to an address on Plumpton Close at around 7.50pm on Saturday 6 December 2025 following reports of an altercation. Mr Anderson was found seriously injured and was tragically pronounced dead at the scene, despite the best efforts of paramedics.

The court heard that approximately an hour before he called the emergency services, Jack contacted a friend and told them he had killed someone, stating he had strangled Mr Anderson during a fight. Jack then called 999 himself and emergency services attended the address. A post-mortem examination later established that Mr Anderson died as a result of strangulation.

Following Jack’s sentencing, Mr Anderson’s heartbroken family paid a poignant tribute to him. A family spokesperson said: “Rest in peace Paul, a precious dad, son, brother, uncle, nephew and friend who was so loved. He was a gentleman with a big heart and an incredible sense of humour. Our hearts will be forever broken.”

Senior Investigating Officer Duncan Thorpe, of Greater Manchester Police, provided insight into the background of the case. “David Jack and Paul Anderson had a complex relationship and had clashed before,” DCI Thorpe said. “Sadly, this time, there were fatal consequences.

“Immediately following the call we received that night in December, we launched a full and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of Paul’s death, securing an arrest and ensuring we left no stone unturned in our search for the truth. Paul was well loved by his family, and I am glad that we have secured justice for them. Our thoughts remain with them following this awful case.”

The tragic case has left a deep impact on the community in Royton and the wider Oldham area. Jack must serve the full minimum term of 26 years and six months before he can be considered for release by the Parole Board, meaning he will be well into his eighties before he is eligible to apply for parole.