Patricia Hewitt, 41, formerly of Keats Close, Stanley, appeared at Teesside Crown Court today where she denied murder but admitted manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility. Angela Lloyd, 56, was stabbed to death at her home in Newton Aycliffe on August 13, 2025.
Plea accepted by prosecution
Prosecutor Jolyon Perks told the court he had spoken to Ms Lloyd's family, some of whom were in the public gallery, and had explained why the plea was acceptable to the Crown. Hewitt, who has been psychiatrically assessed, will not be required to attend her sentencing in person, and will instead follow proceedings from Rampton Secure Hospital. Judge Jonathan Carroll will pass sentence on Thursday.
Family tribute
After the stabbing, Ms Lloyd's family paid tribute, saying: "Angela was a ray of sunshine, had a love of Disney and everything colourful, always in the brightest of clothing and accessories, the brighter the better. Angela was an extremely sociable character, loved to chat and get to know people she met."
"Angela was very religious and tried to help others wherever she could, donating to charity. She loved to knit and on occasions knitted baby hats for the premature baby's unit. Angela loved her cats dearly, spending time with them as much as she could, the youngest perched on her shoulder most days. On days, when Angela was out in the community, she loved a picnic in the parks in Newton Aycliffe or a meal out at the Cobblers Public House."
