A PUB landlord has been given a life sentence for the murder of his wife. Martin Illing, 41, licensee of the Saxon Chief in Queens Road, Maidstone, had denied the charge claiming that he was only guilty of the manslaughter of Jennifer Illing by reason of provocation.

A jury at Maidstone Crown Court heard how Illing flew into a rage at the pub and killed 39-year-old Mrs Illing because he could not accept that their marriage was over. The court was told Illing had been unfaithful to his wife but then became possessive of her. He suspected that she was having an affair, but did not know her new love was Mark Newitt, a customer at the pub.