Detectives investigating the death of former Wirral resident Liam Hill have launched a murder inquiry after his body was discovered in a flat in Rhyl.

A subsequent post-mortem conducted by a Home Office pathologist "has raised significant concerns" about the cause of death and a criminal investigation has been launched.

Police were called to Mr Hill’s home at West Parade shortly before 2pm, on Friday, January 8, where they found his body

Area Commander Superintendent Mark Pierce made a plea to the community to come forward and help detectives establish Mr Hill’s movements before his death.

Superintendent Pierce said “Following the post mortem findings a criminal investigation has been launched, key to which is establishing Mr Hill’s associates and last known movements before his death.

"Inquiries so far indicate Mr Hill was last seen during early to mid to evening on Wednesday, January 6, in the ‘Bar Bow’ Public House in Water Street, Rhyl, but we currently have no idea where he was the following day Thursday, January 7.

" If you recognise him and have seen him recently please contact police and help us piece together what happened."

Superintendent Pierce added: "Also, do you know Liam Hill?

"Liam is originally from the Upton area of Wirral before moving to Rhyl ten years ago.

"Are you a friend? Or neighbour? Can you help us and his distraught family please get to the bottom of what happened to Liam and how he died."

Liam's mum Catherine Hill, who lives in the Rhyl area, said:“Liam was the most loving son you could wish to have. He loved spending time with all his family.

“His death has left an enormous gap that cannot be filled. He will always be in our hearts.”

Anyone who has any information should contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and quote Operation Panatella.

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