Lee Stewart murdered Clare BurnsLee Stewart has been jailed for life for the murder of Clare Burns(Image: GMP)

A mum murdered by her partner previously told police he was abusing her. But Clare Burns told officers that she ‘felt unable to provide a full account’. About a month later, in the early hours of April 7, Lee Stewart fatally assaulted 51-year-old Ms Burns.

An investigation has been launched by the Independent Office for Police Conduct, and the outcome has yet to be revealed.

Greater Manchester Police said: “We had previously attended the home a month prior, after a report that Mr Stewart had spat at Clare. Here Clare made an initial disclosure that she had been subject to abuse at the hands of Leonard, known to most as Lee, Stewart, but felt unable to provide a full account to officers.”

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Ms Burns was found dead at her flat in Queens Road, Collyhurst. Stewart, 55, pleaded guilty to murder and today sentenced to life in prison, to serve a minimum of 16 years and 363 days behind bars.

GMP said of the killer: “He was not witnessed performing CPR or trying to come to Clare’s assistance and was swiftly arrested by officers, as a murder investigation was launched.” She was found to have suffered ‘blunt force head and neck injuries’.

Paying tribute to her, Ms Burns’ family said: “Clare was a loving mother, auntie, sister and daughter. She was funny, outgoing and a very independent person. She was also kind, generous and friendly to anyone she met.

Lee Stewart(Image: GMP)

“Clare would always light up the room she entered, and she was a brilliant friend to many.”

After the hearing, Detective Inspector Emma Hulston, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “Firstly, our hearts go out to Clare’s family, who had her ripped away from them way too early. They have been incredibly strong in the wake of tragedy, and I am pleased that they have not had to endure a lengthy trial, compounding their pain further.

“Now this case has come to its conclusion, I hope the sentence passed today serves as closure to all those who loved her.

Clare Burns

“The actions of Lee Stewart were nothing short of cruel and despicable, and he must now spend the rest of his life in prison with that.”

A GMP statement added: “Clare’s story is an example of violence disproportionately experienced by women and girls in our society, which we are committed to tackling. We would encourage anyone suffering from domestic abuse of any form, whether that be physical violence or otherwise, to come forward to us.

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“Those concerned about their partners or ex-partners can also make sure of the Clare’s Law (Domestic Violence Disclosure) scheme, which enables us to release information about any previous history of violence or abuse a person might have. We encourage any victim of domestic abuse to come forward to us, by calling 101, reporting on our website, or using our Live Chat service.

“Always call 999 in an emergency. Whether you choose to report to police, or not, please know that support is out there. You can contact the below local support organisations who will help you.

“Greater Manchester domestic abuse helpline Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, except bank holidays. For anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Includes a language service and advice for the LGBT community.

“End the Fear Includes information on local help all over Greater Manchester.”