A son has been given a life sentence for the manslaughter of his mother, a shop-worker in Tunbridge Wells.

Fiona Fisher was found dead at her home in Lordswell Lane, Crowborough, at 7.20pm on Friday, April 27 when officers attended the property after her family and friends couldn't get hold of her.

The 51-year-old, who worked in L'Occitane in Royal Victoria Place, died from a single stab wound to the chest.

Today Thomas Fisher, 22, appeared at Lewes Crown Court and was sentenced to life to serve a minimum of two years.

Fiona's parents and daughter Megan paid tribute to her.

In a joint statement they said: “Six months ago our world was torn apart when we were told that Fiona our beautiful daughter and mother to Megan, had been brutally murdered by her son.

“We will never get over the shock of losing her in such horrific circumstances, but she will never be forgotten by her family, friends and anybody else that had the pleasure of meeting her.

“Today should be closure on this senseless tragedy, but it will never be for her family.

“This is something we will have to live with for the rest of our days.

"We would like to put on record that although the recommendation by the Crown Prosecution Service was to accept manslaughter due to diminished responsibility, it was our wish for Tom Fisher to stand trial for murder.

"Our main aim today was to get justice for Fiona.

“She was in the prime of her life and there was no reason why she didn't have many happy years ahead of her, many of which she would have had with her daughter Megan, mother Dorothy, stepfather Les, father Alun and brother Simon.

"We now request that the family be left alone to grieve in private."

Fisher will only be released if and when he is deemed suitable by the parole board. He will remain on licence for the rest of his life.

He pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility when he appeared on court on Tuesday October 2.

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Ashcroft said: "This is a tragic case for all those involved.

“My thoughts remain with Fiona's family and friends who have been devastated her killing.

“I want to thank them for the way they have remained dignified throughout this horrendous ordeal."