THE family of Lynne Freeman have spoken of the utter devastation of the loss of their "beautiful" mother whose life was so brutally cut short.

The 46-year-old was attacked and stabbed in the neck and chest by her violent and controlling boyfriend, Alan Bennett, in her own Redcar home.

She was described as a fun loving woman who lit up the room when she walked in and was always the first to lend a hand to anyone who asked.

Her daughter Kimberley Helm's victim impact statement was read out before Bennett was sentenced for the brutal killing.

Her mother's death was so devastating she was forced to postpone the final year of her nursing training as she attempts to come to terms with her loss.

She said: "The day that my mam was killed a part of me was killed as well. The person who gave me life and brought me into this world was taken away from me in a split second in a vicious, frenzied and senseless attack which can never be undone.

"My mother died alone, terrified and in pain at the hands of someone who she loved and trusted. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy.

"No one deserves to have their life taken and disposed of as though it meant nothing. Least of all a person who gave so much love, joy and compassion to others and asked for nothing in return.

"The void that has been created not only in our family but also the community can never be filled and that's something that we have to face every day."

Sarah Helm spoke of the devastation of having to go to the home where her mother was murdered and sort through her belongings.

She said: "On the way out Kim noticed there was blood on the door handle, knowing it couldn't of come from Mam and that it was obviously where Alan had left knowing my mother was dying on the floor and knowing what he intended to do after that was absolutely sickening."

Following Bennett's sentencing a statement from Lynne's children – Sarah Helm, 28, James Helm, 27, Kimberley Helm, 25, and Lauren Freeman, 18 – said: "The sentencing is a fraction of what he actually deserves; our mother’s life was taken at the age of 46 when she should have had years ahead of her with her family and friends. Jail will never be good enough for what he has done as it’s never going to bring Mam back.

"Mam’s memory will never be forgotten, the loving mother to myself, James, Kimberly and Lauren and a grandma something she was so proud of being.

"The person who lit up a room as she walked in, the loving way she helped others and in return expected nothing, her infectious laugh and personality, the amazing person who selflessly volunteered to give back into the community, is the person she should be remembered for - and not the events that took place that night."