THE family of Marc Hastings have spoken following the sentencing of Joanne Williams of his killing.

They said: "Marc was a loveable rogue who lived for the moment with a happy-go-lucky nature. Despite being subject to maternal abuse before being adopted, he grew up to be a polite and well mannered man, with childlike qualities.

"He was very popular, as hundreds attended his funeral, and was a well-respected footballer. Football was his life.

"Marc worshipped his mother and had a brother and sister he adored.

"There was another side to Marc that has not been touched upon within the legal process.

"We feel to a certain extent Marc has been a victim twice - first when he was killed and the second how he was portrayed during today’s proceedings.

"As a family, we fully understand mental health and domestic abuse and we emphathise with those who have suffered from them. However, taking the life of another is not justifiable.

"Men can also be victims of domestic abuse but don’t speak up about it. There are two sides to a relationship.

"Whatever sentence given will never be enough for taking the life of our much loved son, brother and nephew. There are no winners in this case. Nothing good ever comes from a toxic relationship."