Domestic abuser jailed for murdering wife in Sussex home

Martin Rutherford KC, for the defence, said Pyke had been sober for a long time but had begun drinking a litre of vodka and cider each day.

He had 47 convictions for 18 offences, including 13 for violence, and was described as having an extensive history of domestic violence.

After the sentencing, Det Sgt Elliott Lander said: “While in police custody, [Pyke] made a number of comments which indicated his responsibility for what had happened, showing no remorse and a nonchalant attitude towards the devastating consequences of his actions.

“When interviewed, Michael Pyke chose to remain silent, denying officers and Beryl’s family the answers they deserved.

“Nothing can undo the devastation caused by Beryl’s death, but now sentencing has taken place, we hope her family, friends and all those who knew and loved her can take some comfort in knowing the man responsible will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.”

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