THE GRIEVING mother of a woman murdered in her own home has spoken publicly for the first time since her death.

The body of 39-year-old Angela Wrightson was found in her terraced property in Stephen Street, near Hartlepool town centre, just before 7am on Tuesday, December 9.

A post-mortem examination found she died as a result of blood loss and she had suffered “substantial” injuries.

Ms Wrightson, who had a problem with alcohol, was well-known to the police and the courts as her drunken behaviour often got her into trouble.

Maureen Wrightson has paid tribute to her daughter in a statement released by Cleveland Police who said her death was “desperately sad”.

She said: “As a mother and as a whole family, we have been left devastated by the loss of Angie.

“It’s no secret that she had many difficulties to overcome in her personal life, but to end up in this situation is desperately sad.

“Angie was a real character. She was really well known around the town and we have been comforted by the many messages of sympathy and support which have been passed to us in person and via social media.”

She added: “While we would like to thank everyone for their kindness, we would like to ask for privacy as we come to terms with what has happened.”

Two girls aged 13 and 14 who have been charged with her murder appeared at both Teesside Magistrates’ Court and Teesside Crown Court in Middlesbrough last week and have been remanded in secure accommodation.

A date for the case to return for a possible plea hearing is likely to be set administratively in the new year.