Darren Martin Jackson has been jailed for life for raping and murdering Irene Lawless (pictured below left)

A man from Kent has today been jailed for life after raping and murdering a pensioner in her own home.

Darren Martin Jackson, formerly of Deal, admitting killing 67-year-old Irene Lawless in a tiny Welsh village.

The 26-year-old was jailed for life at Swansea Crown Court after pleading guilty to rape and murder.

He will serve a minimum of 28 years in prison before being considered for release.

The body of Ms Lawless, who lived alone, was found at her home in Llanllwni, Carmarthenshire, on Monday, January 23.

Jackson broke into her house and subjected her to a sustained sexually assault before strangling her.

He then stole her handbag and car before driving more than 300 miles to Kent.

Jackson was arrested in the Deal area less than six hours later after Welsh detectives worked with Kent Police officers.

Jackson, who is said to have lived in a number of addresses in Kent, had only recently moved to Llanllwni.

At the time of her death, Ms Lawless was described locally as a "well-liked and independent lady".

Her son Jason described her as "a loving mother and grandmother, a really peaceful person who loved the garden, animals and her paintings".

Ms Lawless' brother Phil said: "She was a decent sort, a good sister to have."

Det Supt Pam Kelly, from Dyfed-Powys Police, said: "Irene was murdered and raped in her own home.

"These crimes have repulsed Irene's family, the community of Llanllwni and the investigation team.

"Today's sentence is welcomed, as without doubt the public are safer with Jackson being firmly behind bars.

"Irene's family have showed the utmost dignity and patience during this difficult time - it is to them and the investigation teams in Dyfed-Powys and Kent Police that I pay tribute."