A MAN accused of murdering another male in the Lake District has been granted bail by Cumbria's top judge.

Mark Russell, 27, was charged with murder following the death of Gordon James Smith in Windermere on July 1.

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Russell appeared at Carlisle Crown Court later that month. He was refused bail and remanded in custody. The court was told he intended to deny the allegation.

Following that hearing, the prosecution invited Russell's defence team to apply for bail on his behalf due to an ongoing review of the evidence.

His Honour Judge Paul Batty QC gave leave for the defence to make a renewed bail application.

This was made at the crown court and granted by Judge Batty upon the prosecution not opposing it.
Russell, previously of Holly Terrace, Windermere, was released on bail until his next appearance at the court later this month.

There are a number of bail conditions, including residence at a specified address in North Cumbria.
Mr. Smith, 44, died following an incident in the Brookside area of Windermere. He lived a short distance away at Church Street.