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Murder hunt after Royal Jubilee barbeque reveller killed

Saturday, June 9, 2012
11:42 AM

A man who attended a Jubilee celebration barbeque was later found dead, triggering a murder probe in south London.

James Harris Durkin, a dad of three, was found collapsed in Court Road, Orpington, in the early hours of June 5, near to where the party was held.

Hours earlier, a Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace in honour of the Queen’s 60-year-long reign was broadcast on television.

Twenty-one-year-old Durkin, from Eastbourne, died from head injuries after being hit with a blunt object, police believe.

“There were a number of people at the party which is in an area of adjoining residential premises,” a Metropolitan Police spokesman said.

“There were also, despite the early hours of the assault, people in the area either going to or returning from work in a part of Orpington that incorporates a busy road at the junction with Court Road and Lower Road which is in close proximity to the shops at Carlton Parade and Priory Park.”

Call 0208 721 4961 with information. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.