Man Admits Murdering Former Servicewoman

A man has admitted murdering a former British military servicewoman.

Brian Manship, 37, killed mother-of-two Sarah Hassall, 38, whose body was found in a property in Pontypridd, South Wales, in October last year.

On Friday, Mr Manship appeared at Swansea Crown Court and pleaded guilty to murdering the 38-year-old.

He will no longer face his scheduled trial in March.

Mr Manship, from Llys Graig Y Wion, Pontypridd, South Wales, was remanded in custody until his sentencing date on 30 March.

Ms Hassall had previously served with both the RAF and the Royal Engineers.

She was living in Wales having grown up in Chelmsford, Essex.

In tribute after her death, Ms Hassall's family said: "Her career was dominated by her commitment to mountain search and rescue - Sarah represented her units at both rock climbing competitions and competitive running.

"Sarah left the Army in 2010 to embark on, and excel at, even greater challenges, raising two young boys, Owain and Evan.

"Sarah was my best friend and touched many more lives along the way.

"We all now mourn her passing, grateful for the short time we had in her company."

Cover image: Swansea Crown Court (Picture: PA).