A TODDLER suffered fatal head and internal injuries after she was brutally beaten by her mother's then-partner.

Adam Jackson killed Grace Thorpe in November last year after she suffered fatal injuries, including a broken jaw, a broken leg, a bleed on her brain, and bruising to her face and body.

He denied kicking and stamping on the two-year-old but finally admitted that he was responsible for her fatal injuries.

The toddler died in hospital after being severely beaten in her home in New Marske two days earlier.

Analysis of the child's hair showed she had been exposed to regular contact with cocaine and cannabis.

Teesside Crown Court heard how Grace was spotted with bruises on her body and face in the weeks leading up to her murder.

The 27-year-old, who had pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder, appeared at court this morning where he changed his plea to guilty.

Nick Dry, prosecuting, told the court that Jackson had left the toddler seriously injured for a lengthy period before he called emergency services.

Cleveland Police were called to a property on Dale Street, New Marske, to a report of an injured child.

The Northern Echo: Grace ThorpeGrace Thorpe

The two-year-old was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after emergency services were called to the property.

She was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle for treatment but tragically passed away two days later.

Jackson, of Dale Street, New Marske, was jailed for life and told he will serve a minimum of 15 years and 166 days.

A candlelit vigil was held outside her home following her death last year.

Last year Grace's mam paid tribute to the toddler.

The Northern Echo: The candlelit vigilThe candlelit vigil

Alice Quine, said: “Our beautiful little girl has been gone over a week now and it feels like time has just stood still. Her beautiful, bright blue eyes and smile will never leave our minds.

“She made such an impact on everybody. Grace was the most amazing, kind, funny and sassy daughter, sister, niece, and granddaughter.

“You will never leave our hearts princess and we will speak about you every day. Your memory will always be kept alive.

“Thank you to everyone for their support and help during this extremely difficult time. We appreciate it all, please continue to respect our families’ privacy so we can grieve in peace.

“Sleep tight sweetheart.”

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