THE family of Sir Richard Sutton has paid tribute to him after the hotelier's killer was found guilty of murder.

Sir Richard, 83, was stabbed to death by Thomas Schreiber at his Moorhill estate near Gillingham, Dorset.

The millionaire baronet suffered five stab wounds during a "ferocious and sustained attack" upon him and partner Anne Schreiber on April 7.

Thomas Schreiber, 35 and of Gillingham, was found guilty of murder and attempted murder at Winchester Crown Court on Friday, December 17, following a three-week trial.

Bournemouth Echo: Sir Richard SuttonSir Richard Sutton

The defendant, who is Ms Schreiber's son, is due to be sentenced at the same court on Monday, December 20.

Following the jury verdict, Sir Richard's family issued a statement. They said: “How could any family recover from such a sudden and devastating loss?

"We can never bring back Sir Richard but his spirit will very much live on, alongside the very happy memories we have of our incredible father, brother and grandfather.

Bournemouth Echo: Sir Richard SuttonSir Richard Sutton

"His values of being warm, generous and compassionate to everyone he met will be carried forward by future generations, and will never be extinguished.”

Sir Richard had two grown up children, David and Caroline Sutton, and five grandchildren.

Bournemouth Echo: Sir Richard SuttonSir Richard Sutton

Read more of our coverage on the case below

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