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CLARE Burns appeared to be a joyful mother, enjoying a fulfilling life, a loving family, and always dressed elegantly.
However, in the weeks following her tragic death, her family was left shocked to discover that she had been involved with someone they had never met.
Kate Slattery (pictured) was heartbroken by the murder of her sister Clare BurnsCredit: Focus features
Kate mentioned that her sister (pictured together) kept her relationship with her killer a secretCredit: Focus features
Clare, aged 51, was murdered by her on-again, off-again partner Leonard Lee Stewart in April of this year.
Her horrific injuries, including trauma to the head and neck, were detailed in a 63-page report.
As Stewart, 55, receives a life sentence, Clare’s sister, Kate Slattery, has spoken out for the first time.
Kate states: “Clare was a true force of nature; she brought life to any room. She never mentioned Stewart to me; no one had any idea he was violent.
“Perhaps she was terrified of him and the control he had over her.
“She didn’t want us to know she was suffering and being abused. I wish she had confided in us so we could have tried to help.
“Our mother has dementia and doesn't realize Clare has died. In some ways, it’s a blessing she can’t understand, as she wouldn’t have been able to cope with the horrific circumstances of her daughter’s death.
“In Clare’s memory, I urge for more help and support for vulnerable individuals in abusive situations. It’s challenging, but if people reach out for assistance, lives can be saved.”
As one of five siblings, Clare was raised in a close-knit and loving family in Manchester, although she faced challenges early in life.
Kate shares: “Clare was born with one leg slightly shorter than the other. For four years, both her legs were in plaster casts connected by a bar.
“She had to be wheeled around and missed a lot of school. She was resilient yet vulnerable, and my parents, especially my dad, were understandably very protective of her.”
The treatment proved successful, and as the eldest daughter, Clare was nurturing towards her younger siblings.
Kate recalls: “Clare was ten years older than me. She would warm my pajamas on the radiator and run my bath in the evenings.
“She had a huge heart. I cherish so many joyful memories of growing up in a big family with my parents.”
After her education, Clare worked as an account manager for Harvey Nichols, House Of Fraser, and RBS.
Kate notes: “Clare was very glamorous and attractive. She was approached by a well-known footballer while at work.
“She had the finest beauty products, and as a teenager, I loved sneaking into her room to borrow her makeup and skincare items. She would give me little perfume samples.
“She worked hard and enjoyed socializing. She loved music and dancing, and she especially enjoyed a glass of good red wine.
Leonard Lee Stewart, 55, admitted to murdering his partner and was sentenced to lifeCredit: Greater Manchester Police
Kate mentions her sister (pictured) was very slender and would have stood no chance against her attackerCredit: Focus features
Clare, seen with her mother, was described as ‘warm and loving’ by her familyCredit: Focus features
“She was never short of words, but that vulnerability remained.”
Clare married her long-term
