Murder victim John Littlewood's heartbroken family have paid tribute to the "loving dad" with a "good heart".
Mr Littlewood, known as John D, was murdered in his own bed at his home in Blackhall, near Hartlepool, in a savage attack carried out by killer Marty Lee Bates on July 26, 2019.
TeessideLive reports that the victim's father, John Littlewood snr, told a court how his son's death had shattered their family.
In a statement read out at Teesside Crown Court, he said his son's murder would "haunt my thoughts forever" and described him as a "happy-go-lucky" person who was "always there for his friends and family".
He said his son would "always be a part of my heart".
In a statement released after the sentencing, he added: “After 22 long and painful months my family and I can now lay my son to rest knowing that the person responsible for his murder has admitted his guilt.
“We can now try to move forward, sadly without John D in our lives, but always in our hearts.
“We would like to thank the police and all those who have provided support to our family throughout this difficult time.”
John D’s devastated mother, Pamela Hall, also paid tribute to her son at the hearing.
She said she had a "lovely bond" with her first born son, and said his death was "heartbreaking".
