Detectives from Merseyside Police are appealing to Crimewatch viewers on Monday evening (12 September), in a bid to trace the people responsible the murder of grandfather James Stanton – 10 years on.



James Stanton , 58 years, from Thornton, was shot while he was at work in his business premises, Aintree Commercial Vehicle on Ormskirk Road, Aintree on 24 July 2006.

Detective Superintendent Dave Brunskill will be live in the studio on Monday night and James’ wife Jean has also been interviewed as part of the appeal. Officers investigating the death will be taking calls and are continuing to offer a reward of £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for his death.

Detective Superintendent Dave Brunskill said: “We believe two men were responsible for Mr Stanton’s murder. We know they left the scene in a blue Toyota Avensis (registration DM53 MKK), which was stolen from Sefton Street, Liverpool, two months before the murder and was found burnt out on Blindfoot Road, Rainford, the following day.”

Detective Superintendent Dave Brunskill added: "Ten years have passed since the murder of James Stanton and his wife, Jean and family are still suffering from their loss. They can't rest until those responsible for his death are arrested, charged and brought before the courts.

"On this evening’s programme, we will be continuing to appeal to anyone who may have seen the car between 25 May and the night of the murder, bearing in mind that the car may not have been displaying its original number plates at the time of the murder, to come forward.

"The investigation team has always maintained that there are people within the community and especially the criminal fraternity who will know who was responsible for Jim’s death and would be able to assist with vital information. I’m hoping that with the passing of time, someone watching tonight’s show might find it in them to come forward and help Jim’s family get some form of closure."

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives from the Matrix Serious Organised Crime team on 0800 230 0600, or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.