The parents of the murdered teenager Christopher Donovan saw justice done at the Old Bailey this week as their sons' three killers were sentenced to life imprisonment.

Ray and Vi Donovan, from New Malden, were in court on Wednesday when the Common Sergeant Peter Beaumont QC sentenced Stephen Andrews (pictured above right), 21, of Holman Road, Epsom, Ryan Seymour (pictured above left), 17, formerly of Holman Road, and a 16-year-old youth who cannot be named for legal reasons, to life behind bars after being found guilty of murder.

Mr Donovan, 50, said: "Justice was done. We are glad they were given life sentences. But there are no winners in cases like this because it is very sad for them and their families. Let's hope other youngsters will learn from this."

Mr Donovan described how the courtroom fell silent as Mr Beaumont passed the sentence.

He said: "It was strange in the court room it was very quiet. The judge told the boys "you still have your lives after your sentence but Christopher's mum and dad will never see their son again and his brother had to see him die"."

Christopher, 18, was killed on May 26 last year, as he was walking down Kingston Road, in Stoneleigh, with his brother Philip and a friend.

They were set upon by a group of youths. In the attack Christopher was punched and kicked in the head and left unconscious in the road. He was hit by a car and dragged 40ft along the road.

Mr Donovan said: "It is over. That is all I can say. No more trips to the Old Bailey.

"This last year has been an emotional roller coaster for us as we have experienced anger, despair, pain, sadness and confusion.

"Chris was a Christian and we have learnt life is more than just about here and now.

"Through forgiveness we can move on but life will never be the same and Chris will never be replaced in our hearts."

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton said: "These three young men, for whatever reason, took part in a savage attack on an innocent man. I am sure Christopher's family and friends and indeed the local community will be satisfied they are now starting life sentences."

Mr Beaumont has recommended Seymour should serve a minimum of 10 years and the 16-year-old youth six years. Andrews' minimum term has still not been fixed.

June 21, 2002 15:00