Brianna Ghey: A view from the courtroom as teen killers found guilty

ITV News North of England Reporter Kelly Foran has been covering the case from the courtroom, here she breaks down what she saw and heard.

Brianna’s mum Esther, her dad and their families were sat just by us in the public gallery and let out a huge gasp in court - followed by tears.

The two killers were in the dock. Girl X was holding a fidget toy.

The judge told them they would get a life sentence, but said she would need to consider the minimum term.

Their courtroom has been packed every day - so much so they’ve introduced an overspill court - to fit in all members of the public and press who have shown an interest.

The jury took less than five hours to find both defendants guilty.

Throughout the trial both denied murder, and both pointed the finger of blame at each other.

This wasn’t a case of an argument that got out of hand, or a fight that went wrong.

It’s a case of a planned, premeditated and brutal murder.

Speaking on the steps of Manchester Crown Court, Esther Ghey said: "Brianna was larger than life. She was funny, witty and fearless.

"We miss Brianna so much and our house feels empty without her laughter.

"To know how scared my usually fearless child must have been when she was alone in that park with someone that she called her friend, will haunt me forever.

"Prior to the trial I had moments where I felt sorry for the defendants because they had ruined their own lives as well as ours.

"Now, knowing the true nature and seeing neither display an ounce of remorse for what they have done to Brianna, I have lost all sympathy that I may have previously had for them, and I am glad that they will spend many years in prison and away from society."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...