THE sister of murdered man Robert Sempey whose body was found with stab wounds in a back garden last month has written an emotional poem in his memory.

Robert, known as 'Rob', was found in a back garden in Beilby Road, Haydock on Sunday, January 21.

Rob, who was from Newton-le-Willows, died from stab wounds according to a Home Office post mortem examination.

Sister Mandie Sempey wrote the following:

“The three of us it's always been

“Not too many were very keen

“To take us on or give us a home

“But we weren't bothered, we were never alone

“Rob, Mandie and Shelly we will always be three

“No-one will replace you. Nobody

“I love you and miss you forever my brother

“Go to sleep now with our father and mother

“Love you always and miss you

“Your little, big sis Mandie."

Further tributes have been issued by his other sister Shell Sempey, his partner Lisa Rigby and his niece Sharny Bates.

Lisa said: "Rob was the most caring loving man you could ever wish for, he was so protective of me and the kids.

“All he wanted to do was enjoy life and have fun, he always said I was his angel and I will make him proud.

“I love him and miss him so much he'll always be my boy."

Shell, the sister of Robert, added: "My big brother Rob was a good person, he was everything.

“He was always there to pick me up when things were going wrong. Always made me smile.

“I am and will miss him forever.

“Life will never be the same without him. If only I could have one last call I'd talk to him all night and never miss his call again.

“He was the best brother you could ask for and I don't think I ever told him but he knows now he's at peace.

“Goodnight and god bless my big bro."

Sharny said: “My uncle Rob was one of the main people in my life and my Kayden's great uncle, I have always been close to my uncle Rob.

“He was and still is a big part of my life. I am stuck for words really but I have 19 years of memories that will never be taken away.

“Love you forever and always Uncle Rob."

Ian Robertson, 33, of Beilby Road, Haydock appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, January 24 charged with Robert's murder.

Kirsty Jervis, 30, of Beilby Road, Haydock, who has been charged with assisting an offender, also appeared.

Both were remanded in custody and will next appear in Liverpool Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for April 19.

A possible trial has been earmarked for July 16.