Stabbing victim will be missed for eternity, says family

Gordon White, 47, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and was sentenced to an indeterminate time in a mental health institution by a judge at Sheffield Crown Court on Monday.

In a statement released yesterday, Miss Martin's family said: "This has been a harrowing and extremely traumatic time for all the family.

"We wish to thank the investigation team at South Yorkshire Police for their professionalism and ask that the media continue to respect our privacy as we continue the grieving process.

"Nothing can bring Cheryl back to us. She was a dearly loved member of our family whose loss leaves us feeling empty and disconsolate. She will be missed by friends and family for eternity."

The evening before the attack on Miss Martin, 44, White cut his own wrists and was taken by his partner to Rotherham Hospital.

Mental health trained social workers there noted White was anxious and confused but decided not to admit him as Miss Martin was very supportive and he said he had no specific plans to carry out his threats.

Miss Martin was merely given a telephone number for a psychiatric crisis team and White left the hospital, not having seen a doctor.

The next morning he stabbed Miss Martin to death in a "savage" attack with a kitchen knife at their home in Broom, Rotherham.

Two psychiatrists both agreed he was acutely mentally ill.

Ian Jerams, chief operating officer for Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) said yesterday that the Trust would like to extend its condolences to Miss Martin's family and loved ones.

He added that Mr White, accompanied by Miss Martin, attended Rotherham General Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department on October 10 2009, seeking help for mental health problems.

"He was assessed by two experienced mental health professionals and their opinion at the time was that he did not require admission to hospital.

"However, he was offered treatment at home and arrangements were made to see him the following day. Unfortunately, this tragic and unforeseen event occurred before the planned visit.

"Mr White was not previously known to RDaSH specialist mental health services."