Gloucester man sentenced to life in prison after killing wife and step-daughter

A Gloucester man has been sentenced to life in prison with the minimum of 29 years for murdering his wife and her 11-year-old daughter at their home.

Friends and family of Laura Mortimer and Ella Dalby applauded as Christopher Boon was taken away.

Police found the bodies of the 31-year-old and 11-year-old at their home in Dexter Way after they were stabbed to death on 28 May 2018.

The court heard how Ella "bravely came to the help of her mother" as her step-father carried out "a sustained and brutal episode of violence".

After the attack, Boon left the home and phoned his mother to tell her what he had done.

His mother's partner called 999 after arriving at the scene and officers from Gloucestershire Police attended within 10 minutes.<

The court heard Ms Mortimer and Boon had been married for about five years and he was stepfather to Ella.

In early 2018, Boon had an affair and Ms Mortimer told him she wanted a divorce in May.

Ella was a student at Barnwood Park Arts College, where she had a passion for dance.

Ms Mortimer ran her own business, Sweet Beginnings, offering bespoke bridal gowns and wedding planning services.

Close friend Claire Llewellyn worked with Laura and says she was completely numbed by what happened.