Matthew Selby: Teenager admits killing ‘loving’ sister, 15, at North Wales holiday park

‘She will be very sadly missed,’ her family said in a statement to police

Undated family handout file photo issued by North Wales Police of Amanda Selby, 15. (PA)

A 19-year-old has admitted to killing his “caring, thoughtful” younger sister at a holiday park in north Wales.

Matthew Selby, of Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, pleaded guilty at Mold Crown Court on Monday to the manslaughter of his 15-year-old sibling.

Amanda Selby died after police responded to reports of a “domestic disturbance” at the Ty Mawr Holiday Park in Towyn, near Abergele, on 31 July last summer.

Her older brother had been expected to face trial for her murder later this month.

But he appeared via videolink from HMP Berwyn for the hearing, which lasted less than 10 minutes, say reports.

Court artist’s sketch of Matthew Selby appearing at Mold Crown Court. (PA)

Ian Unsworth QC, prosecuting, said the Crown accepted the plea to manslaughter, based on close analysis of psychiatric reports.

Judge Rhys Rowlands added: “I too have read the reports from both psychiatrists and plainly I understand the decision taken by the Crown.”

Judge Rowlands adjourned the case and said a sentencing hearing had been listed for 18 March.

Gordon Cole QC, defending, said the teenager would be seen again by a psychiatrist in advance of his sentencing.

Following her death, Amanda’s family released a statement via North Wales Police which said: “Amanda was a loving daughter and granddaughter - she was caring, thoughtful, liked to help others and very much loved. She will be very sadly missed.”

The 15-year-old’s school, Droylsden Academy in Greater Manchester, also paid its tributes.

“Our school family is devastated by this awful news. Amanda was a lovely student and she will be sorely missed by students and staff,” reads a message on its website.