AN ELLESMERE man who carried out the unlawful manslaughter of his 'father figure' grandfather will serve at least 18 months in prison after he was jailed.

Ashley Sumner broke down in tears as he appeared via video link at Stafford Crown Court on Friday, November 3, as the court heard about the death of John Bathers in September, this year.

The Honourable Mrs Justice May DBE heard how on Sunday, September 5, Sumner had arrived at his grandfather's home in a state of distress following an argument with his girlfriend that led to him being asked to leave the house of his mother Catherine Williams.

She then called ahead to her father but Sumner picked up the phone before Mr Bathers took control and the defendant was heard shouting about money in the background.

The court was told that Sumner was arguing over changes to his grandfather's will.

Mr Bathers then pushed Sumner in the chest as he was remonstrating with him, grabbed his arm which his grandson tried to move away from and in doing so, pushed him and he tripped over a rug and banged his head.

Sumner left, taking his grandfather's car without permission, despite having no licence or insurance, while police arrived on the scene.

The situation was explained to officers by Mr Bathers, who had blood from a cut where he fell. It transpired that Sumner had not called emergency services but had left before he returned later having been drinking and without his grandfather's car.

Mr Bathers refused treatment and offers of overnight support, but within two days, his health had declined rapidly and he died on September 8 from a brain haemorrhage, leading to Sumner's arrest in Ellesmere, following a brief chase on foot by police.

The court heard that Sumner was a binge drinker and was in a relationship that his grandfather did not approve of, and arguments over money and his life were regular.

However, it was also stated that Mr Bathers loved and was fond of Sumner who was described as 'a loving, hardworking man when without drink'.

Justice May DBE acknowledged that Sumner, who was in tears after hearing a victim impact statement from his mother, was shamed by his actions that led to the death of a man who brought him up.

She added: "You have pleaded guilty to the unlawful act of manslaughter."

She said: "Precisely what happened is known only to you now.

"There are many references of how fond and proud of you he was but he was worried about the relationship you were in.

"You both had a very good relationship and of all his grandchildren you were the one who went there to help when he needed it.

"This makes this episode so sad and shameful; he was old and needed your care and support, not your anger.

"You’ll need to find peace with that and make him proud. No sentence I can pass will bring him back and give your mother time with him again.

"It was unplanned and I think you do express real remorse and genuine shame."

Sumner was jailed for three years but will be released on licence after half, while there were no separate custodial sentences for taking a car without consent, driving without insurance and a licence.

Following the sentencing, West Mercia Police's Detective Inspector Dafydd Jones said: “This has been a distressing case for the family of the deceased knowing that the person who was responsible for the death was a relative. This does not detract from the fact that Ashley Sumner has accepted responsibility for the death of his grandfather and has been given a custodial sentence.

“I hope that the early resolution of this trial and sentence will offer some comfort to the bereaved family and our thoughts remain with them.

“West Mercia Police is committed to tackling domestic abuse. If you have been a victim of domestic abuse, or are worried about someone you know, please call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

 “Anyone who is a victim and feels they may need support, or may not want to contact the police can contact West Mercia Police's Victim Advice Line which is a free, independent and confidential support service. People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit https://victimadviceline.org.uk/”

The family have now requested privacy at this time.