Police re-release harrowing domestic violence video of heartbroken parents recalling Derbyshire daughter's murder

It is nearly the second anniversary of the death of Keely McGrath who was killed by her partner Anthony Davis, who beat her to death in their South Normanton home on December 13, 2018.

Davis, 40, of Alfred Street, South Normanton, was found guilty by a jury and jailed for life, with a minimum of 24 years.

Keely’s parents Claire and Martin sadly only learnt the full extent of the coercive and controlling behaviour and physical abuse she had endured after her murder.

Derbyshire police have now re-published the video of the 30-year-old’s parents speaking about the pain they’ve experienced following their daughter’s death as part of their ongoing campaign to raise awareness against gender-based violence.

In the film, which is split up into three parts, Claire and Martin explain the ‘hell’ they’ve gone through personally in dealing with Keely’s murder.

During the video Claire said: “I don’t want anyone else to suffer the way we have, because it’s hell. The hole that she’s left behind is massive.”

Keely – who was a mother of five – suffered the abuse at the hands of her partner in silence and her parents have spoken out to encourage other victims to know they are not alone and seek help.

Claire and Martin also urge concerned relatives to make themselves aware of the signs of domestic abuse to help their loved ones before it is too late.

In the video, Keely’s dad recalled the horrific moment Davis told him his daughter was dead.

“Just gone midday I got a phone call. I knew I was being set up for some bad news because he asked me was I alone, was I driving", Martin added.

“But even then, I thought the bad news was that they had split up. Either he’s kicked her out or she’s left him.

“And then he just said ‘Keely’s passed away’, and that wasn’t what I was expecting.

“My reaction was what, say that again? He said she’s died, and again my reaction was confused.

“And then he said quite forcefully ‘she’s dead’”.

“I think I paused for a few seconds and said how, why? And he said something along the lines of she’s hurt herself badly, I don’t know anymore, the police are coming and I’ll tell you more when I know.

“The conversation lasted about 90 seconds and I was struck by how he wanted to get off the phone.”

Derbyshire Constabulary will share the second and third parts of the video over the next few days.

If you are a victim of abuse or have concerns about someone you know, you can report it to police online, by calling 101 or using the textphone service on 18001 101.Alternatively, you can contact the force on Facebook, Twitter or by calling 999 in the case of an ongoing emergency.

For more advice on how to access domestic abuse support through local Derbyshire services, visit the force’s website.

Chesterfield drunk driver trips over during police chase after smashing into bollard

Appeal to identify bikers after 'criminal damage' near Chesterfield

Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after incident in Chesterfield

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.