Bradford man jailed for life for murdering wife with rolling pin

BRADFORD MAN JAILED FOR LIFE FOR MURDERING WIFE WITH ROLLING PIN

A man has been jailed for life for murdering his 73-year-old wife, who he beat to death with a rolling pin.

Edward Small, 76, of Raymond Drive, Bradford, had denied murdering Sheila Small but was found guilty in May.

He had admitted manslaughter after his wife, who had dementia, was found dead at the house they shared last December.

Small was given a minimum term of 14 years when he was sentenced at Bradford Crown Court.

Speaking after the sentencing, Det Supt Mark Swift of West Yorkshire Police, said: "Small said the attack on his wife was as a result of him briefly losing control as he struggled to cope with her condition.

However, the jury agreed with the prosecution's case that it was sustained violence over a period of time which resulted in her death.

He now has some considerable time to reflect on his actions and our sympathies remain with Mrs Small's family at this time." He added: "We acknowledge that progressive conditions such as Alzheimer's can cause distress for those affected and anyone struggling to cope should make contact with support services to seek help and advice."