Premiership star Barton’s brother wanted for racist axe murder

THE brother of Premiership footballer Joey Barton was being sought by police last night in connection with the racist murder of a black teenager.

Anthony Walker, 18, was attacked with an axe in Huyton, Merseyside on Friday night after being followed through a park by a gang who had hurled racial abuse at him.

Police yesterday said they wanted to speak to 18-year-old Michael Barton, brother of Manchester City midfielder Joey, and 20-year-old Paul Taylor in connection with the murder of Mr Walker. Both men are from Huyton.

Joey Barton was yesterday said to be in Southampton on club business and unavailable for comment. Manchester City also refused to comment.

It is believed that Michael Barton, who the BBC named as Joey Barton’s brother, and Paul Taylor have fled to Europe.

Two men, aged 26 and 29, from Huyton, were arrested yesterday in connection with the attack. A 17-year-old male was arrested over the weekend and remained in custody.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “We would like to speak to two men, Paul Taylor and Michael Barton... who we believe could assist with the ongoing police investigation into the death of Anthony Walker. Detectives believe the two men could have travelled abroad.”

Mr Walker, a devout Christian, was subjected to a torrent of racial abuse as he waited for a bus with his white girlfriend and cousin Marcus Binn, 17, on Friday. The trio walked away from the trouble but were followed through a park.

Mr Binns and the 17-year-old girl managed to escape but Mr Walker was attacked with an axe.

His mother Gee Walker, 49, made an emotional visit yesterday to the scene of his death where a makeshift shrine has been set up.

She wept and appeared close to collapse as she read tributes and looked at the scores of bouquets, along with basketballs and football shirts in honour of the talented athlete.

Mrs Walker, a special needs teacher, was too upset to speak to waiting reporters but stopped briefly to exchange words and a hug with one of the steady stream of mourners who have been visiting the spot throughout the day.

Among the flowers an anonymous well-wisher had left a card with the words: “I feel deep shame for having to share our world with the evil vermin that took your life. RIP Anthony, we are not all like them.”

Another tribute, apparently left by his cousin, stated: “To Anthony, I don’t know what to say, lad. I miss you so much. I’m sorry this had to happen. I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you. I’m sorry. I love you. Some day I will see you again.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Peter Currie, who is leading the murder investigation said he would not rest until he had brought those responsible to justice.