A Mexborough man is facing life in prison after being convicted of murder.

John Sowden was found guilty of murdering Christopher Rooney, 48, of Auckland Road, Mexborough, at Sheffield Crown Court today and is due to be sentenced.

He is facing a life sentence with a minimum of 15 years.

Mr Rooney's body was found at his home on September 2.

He had suffered injuries to his head and body in the early hours of the morning.

Sowden, 44, of Elm Road, Mexborough, was arrested and charged the same day.

Mr Rooney's family said in a statement: “We are pleased that justice has been done and Sowden has been found guilty of the brutal killing of our Chris.

“He was hoping to start afresh in Mexborough and was befriended by Sowden who took advantage of him.

“He broke into his flat and beat him so badly and left him to die. He had the opportunity to call for an ambulance but he didn't.

“Our Chris was a great son and brother, and we miss him so very much. Whilst nothing can bring him back, we feel that justice for Chris has been achieved.

“We now wish to get on with our lives and would like to thank South Yorkshire Police and their staff who helped so much.”

Det Supt Matt Fenwick, the senior investigating officer said: “This was a brutal and vicious attack by Sowden who has shown no remorse for his violent behaviour and actions, which led to the untimely death of Mr Rooney.

“We offer our deepest condolences to Mr Rooney’s family and will continue to offer support to them wherever we can.”