Laurence Billam, 93, has admitted killing his 87-year-old wife at the home they shared. Appearing via video link at Exeter Crown Court, he denied murder but pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Shirley Billam on April 19, 2026. She died from smothering. The Crown said the plea was acceptable, and he will be sentenced in November.
Court proceedings and plea
Billam, of Edwards Court in Millbrook Lane, Exeter, appeared from HMP Exeter, where he is being held, wearing glasses and prison-issue grey clothing. Members of the Billam family were in court to listen to the proceedings. Judge James Patrick acknowledged it was a difficult day for them.
Ray Tully KC, prosecuting, said the defendant had offered a plea to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility at a previous court hearing. After a period of careful consideration, during which members of the Billam family were spoken to, the CPS concluded the plea was acceptable. The Crown also took into consideration psychiatric evidence from three separate psychiatrists.
Background and sentencing
Emergency services were called to the address at about 12.40pm on April 19, and Mrs Billam's body was discovered at the scene. A trial date had previously been set for the case, but that will not now take place.
Judge Patrick ordered a pre-sentence report. Sentencing will take place on November 20. He said he would not make any promises to the defendant about the outcome of the sentence. Billam, who spoke briefly to confirm his personal details, said, "Very good, sir."
Shirley Billam was born in Aylesham, Canterbury, and was a retired shop owner, an inquest opening was told.
