Sir Richard Sutton: Family tribute to murder victim ‘who only wanted to enjoy his twilight years’

The family of Sir Richard Sutton have described the loss of a “generous, loving, elderly man”.

In a statement released following the sentencing of Thomas Schreiber at Winchester Crown Court for the murder of the millionaire hotelier, they said: “We welcome the outcome of the trial and that justice has been seen to be done.

“However, this was a tragic and devastating loss of life, taken far too early, of a generous, loving, elderly man who only wanted to enjoy his twilight years; an elderly man who was our father, a brother, a grandfather and a friend to all who knew him.

“We will treasure our memories of him forever and his values, of being warm and compassionate to all those he met and worked with, will live on; as will the love, respect and devotion he showed to his family and friends every day.

“In business, Sir Richard had a passion for excellence, whether in his hotels, property or farming interests.

“The British countryside has lost an amazing champion who was, above all, an active and committed farmer.

“He taught us all about the importance of protecting and preserving the environment around us and the need to leave it in a better place for future generations.

“We will never forget him, nor his never-ending kindness and generosity. He will be sorely missed.

“We want to thank the team of detectives, the police liaison officers, the CPS and Mr Adam Feest QC for their support, and for bringing this heinous crime to justice.”