A MAN has admitted to killing an 89-year-old pensioner in his Somerset home in 2023.

James O'Connor, 44, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Bristol Crown Court on Thursday, February 8.

The court was told how O’Connor stabbed Frederick Burge at his home on George Street in Glastonbury on Sunday, February 26, 2023.

An investigation was launched into Frederick’s death by the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) and O’Connor was charged on Wednesday, March 8 following an extensive review of CCTV, witness interviews and public appeals.

O’Connor will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court at a later date.

MCIT senior investigating officer, detective superintendent Gary Haskins, said: “Our collective thoughts remain with Frederick’s family, who have been supportive throughout the investigation.

“Frederick was described by them as a well-known character in Glastonbury with a friendly smile who regularly stopped to talk with others in the community.

“We hope this result will give the family some closure and give them solace following what has undoubtedly been a very difficult time.

“I would like to recognise the hard work of all police officers and staff involved in the investigation as well as partners within the community and the Crown Prosecution Service.”