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Mother who killed her three disabled children given hospital order

Depressed mother Tania Clarence, who smothered her three young disabled children as they slept before attempting suicide, was given a hospital order at the Old Bailey today after Judge Mr Justice Sweeney said she had been "overwhelmed".

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Family: Unbearable pressure overwhelmed Tania

Tania Clarence became overwhelmed by the enormity of caring for her three disabled children, her family has said.

Clarence's investment banker husband Gary supported his wife throughout what his solicitor described as "one of the saddest" cases to come before the criminal courts.

Gary Clarence seen arriving at the Old Bailey today. Credit: PA Wire

"The Clarence family, and in particular Tania Clarence, dedicated their lives to the care and welfare of their three severely disabled children," solicitor Richard Egan said on behalf of the Clarence family.

"Her love, commitment and tenacity in the face of the overwhelming responsibilities such care entailed was extraordinary.

"Her daily struggle eventually overwhelmed Tania's ability to cope with the enormity of the task she faced.

"Ultimately, her story of dedication and love became a story of despair and utter hopelessness."

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