A MAN has pleaded guilty to the murder of 21-year-old Declan Bunting.

Stuart Rawling, 31, of Wilderspool Causeway, was expected to stand trial on Monday but he has since pleaded guilty to murder.

An investigation was launched after police were called to a property on Wilderspool Causeway where Mr Bunting was found with serious injuries.

The 21-year-old died from a stab wound to the chest after he was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries on the morning of June 16.

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Rawling pleaded guilty yesterday, Monday, to one count of murder.

He will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court next Monday.

Paying tribute to her son following his death, his mum said: “Declan was my best friend.

“He was a loveable young man who was well-liked by all those who knew him.

“He would always be joking and making people laugh with no-one ever being sad or miserable when he was around.

"We all miss him so much and I wish we could have him back with us. I am lost without him.”