Overview

• Fiona Beal, a 50-year-old primary school teacher, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of a loss of control, while denying the murder of her 42-year-old partner.
• Billingham's partly mummified remains were discovered four-and-a-half months after he was last seen, leading to Beal's arrest in March 2022.
• Evidence from Beal's journals, where she detailed the killing and subsequent actions, played a crucial role in the investigation.
• Beal used a forged utility knife and cable ties in the attack, which occurred after she had ensured she would be alone in the house for an extended period.
• The trial continues at the Old Bailey, with the prosecution arguing that Beal's actions were premeditated and included extensive efforts to conceal the crime.