THE Northwich man accused of battering a teenager to death in a flat in Castle is facing life in prison after pleading guilty to murder.

Ian Broughton, 28, initially denied murdering 17-year-old Rhys Butler and was due to stand trial today, Wednesday at Chester Crown Court.

But a hearing was arranged for Friday, January 9, at Chester so the former Witton Church Walk Primary School and Rudheath High School pupil, of Priory Street, could change his plea.

Rhys, who came from Speke, was found dead in a flat at Peckforton Way, Castle on May 27 last year, and Broughton has been in custody ever since being charged a week later.

Police say the teenager had been the victim of a “very physical assault”, and linked the murder to a feud over drugs.

After Rhys’ death his mother Tina Butler said: “I’m not saying he was a perfect teenager – he did have his moments. But he was mine. He didn’t deserve to die like this.”

Broughton was remanded in custody by Recorder of Chester Judge Elgan Edwards, and will be sentenced on Friday, January 16.