Gracie Spinks inquest: Family's heart 'ripped out' by woman's death

Gracie Spinks was stabbed to death while tending to her horse in Derbyshire

The mother of a woman killed by her ex-colleague said her family's heart "has been ripped out" by the death.

Michael Sellers killed Gracie Spinks, 23, in Duckmanton, Derbyshire, before killing himself. Miss Spinks died on 18 June 2021 from 10 stab wounds.

On Monday, her inquest at Chesterfield Coroner's Court heard a series of statements from the family.

Her mother, Alison Ward, said Miss Spinks's room remained untouched, with dirty clothes on the floor.

Ms Spinks's parents have previously spoken about getting more support for victims of stalking

Several members of the jury and family members wept as multiple tributes were read out that described Ms Spinks as a "role model" and "free spirit".

Holding back tears, Ms Ward said: "Gracie was the life and soul and energy of our house. She would always be singing, playing music and having fun with us all.

"Now we have silence in our house and the heart of our family has been ripped out.

"The death of our beautiful daughter left the whole family and myself devastated. Nothing will ever be the same.

"I cannot put into words how much this has impacted my family and every aspect of my life."

Ms Spinks had reported colleague Michael Sellers over his "creepy" behaviour

Ms Spinks had reported Sellers to Derbyshire Police due to stalking concerns months before she died, but he was judged to pose a low risk, the inquest previously heard.

Ms Spinks was stabbed to death as she tended to her horse at Blue Lodge Farm, with Sellers' body found later that day about 150m (492ft) away with self-inflicted injuries.

Her father, Richard Spinks, said she was an "amazing and unique person", and added: "Everybody she met, she took to straight away, and they to her.

"I am so devastated that she could not fulfil her hopes and dreams and all the things she wanted to do.

"She was the light of my life and so precious to me. Her loss has changed me completely and I miss her every day."

'Deserved more'

Her brother, Thomas Spinks, said: "Gracie lit up the room. She was the life of the party and had an absolutely massive, golden heart."

Her sister, Abi Heaton, said: "I will always see her laughing, pulling funny faces and singing.

"She would do anything for those she loved.

"She was the life of my family, our best friend and deserved so much more.

"I don't know what to do without her. I am lost."

The jury was shown several pictures of Ms Spinks, many of which included her horse, Paddy.

The inquest continues.