A MAN with a history of mental illness will serve an indefinite sentence in hospital after admitting killing his mother.

Earlier this year Gavin Nash, of Tansy Lane, Portishead, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility.

The 40-year-old stabbed Lynette Nash at his home on June 27 last year.

The court heard how Nash had a history of mental illness and at around noon, left his home before returning a short while later.

Upon returning, he stabbed his mother and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, she died of her injuries.

In tribute to 64-year-old Lyn, the family said: “Lyn possessed a loving and kind-hearted spirit.

“She brought light to our lives and cared for her children with all her heart.

“As a family, we are lost without her, she was an amazing mother, daughter, and sister.

“It is our hope that our brother, Gavin, will now receive the help which will allow him to recover and manage his mental illness and, in time, re-join us in mourning the loss of our mother.”

Nash was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order at Bristol Crown Court on Friday (April 26).

After the hearing, senior investigating officer, Det Insp Neil Meade, said: “Our thoughts remain with Lynette’s family as they continue to adjust to life without her. I would like to take a moment to commend the strength Lynette’s loved ones have shown throughout this investigation.

“I would also like to praise the hard work of the officers and staff from the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) who have been dedicated to this investigation.”