Man jailed for life after man found dead in Gateshead wheelie bin

A man has today been sentenced to 18 years for the murder of Craig Eade.

Paul Watkins, 36, of Northbourne Street, Gateshead, pleaded guilty to the murder of Craig in April and has today been sentenced to 18 years for his death.

Craig's body was discovered in a wheelie bin on Wednesday, March 1 after police received reports of concern.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fairlamb has led the investigation and welcomes the sentence today however he says that there are still enquiries continuing in relation to this investigation.

DCI Fairlamb said:

"We welcome the sentence handed down by the court today and we hope this gives Craig's family some sense of justice. However, I want to make it clear that this investigation will continue and while Watkins has admitted to killing Craig, we want to establish the exact circumstances of that evening.

Watkins' guilty pleas has been accepted but we are still trying to establish the whole incident and not just the moment Craig was killed. I have a duty to seek full justice for Craig's family and be absolutely certain that Paul Watkins was the only one responsible for Craig's death.

"My condolences very much remain with Craig's family and I want to commend them for their bravery during this difficult time.

"This has been a shocking case and we will seek to identify any one else involved and seek justice for the family."

The family of Craig Eade have paid tribute to him and have released the following statement:

"Craig was a much loved son, brother, uncle and nephew. He was a very happy lad with a big heart. We loved him and will always miss him. The one thing that gives us comfort is knowing that the person responsible is off the streets, we hope for good."

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiries Team on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.