BOURNEMOUTH man David Towers has been jailed for life for killing his former mother-in-law Irene Hawkes.

David Towers, 51, was told he would have to serve at least 18 years in prison before being considered for parole.

Eighty-two-year-old Irene Hawkes was left with a broken nose, jaw and eye socket and fractures to her sternum and seven ribs in the brutal attack by Towers.

Mrs Hawkes took several days to die after being left lying on the kitchen floor of her home in Wakely Road, Kinson, the jury at Winchester Crown Court heard.

As Towers was led away to the cells he shouted exchanges with people sitting in the public gallery.

The judge, the honorable Mrs Justice Sharp, told Towers: "This was a cowardly and brutal attack against a defenceless and vulnerable lady who had lived a respectable life and had shown you considerable kindness."

For a full story and background see tomorrow's Daily Echo.