Lancashire Man Jailed for Murdering Girlfriend

23 September 2011, 15:05 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A 34-year-old old man has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of killing of his girlfriend at her home in Nelson.

A 34-year-old old man has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of killing of his girlfriend at her home in Nelson.

Carl Field, of St Philips Street, was convicted of the murder of Debra Walsh at Preston Crown Court.

He was told he must serve a minimum of 19 years behind bars. 

Debra’s body was discovered by police at her house on Norfolk Street around 3pm on Monday 21 March 2011. 

It is thought that her body may have been there several weeks. A post mortem examination revealed the 34 year old had been strangled.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Howarth, who led the investigation, said: “I am pleased with today’s verdict. This was a tragic crime which has left a young boy without his mother and a family devastated by their loss.  Debra suffered horrific injuries at the hands of Field which ultimately led to her death; her final moments must have been truly unimaginable and Field deserves to spend a long time behind bars.  Our thoughts are with Debra’s family at this difficult time and I hope today’s result will bring them some small comfort as they continue to come to terms with their loss.”