A Blackpool woman who killed her grandmother before lying to a coroner's court has escaped a prison sentence.

Sarah Cochrane, 37, of Wetherby Avenue, received a two year suspended sentence after pleading guilty to the manslaughter of her grandmother and perverting the course of justice.

Ms Cochrane, killed 87 year old Annie Skirrow in 2004, after a momentary loss of self control.

At the time of the death she was providing round-the clock care for her grandmother who suffered from senile dementia but she did not confess to the crime until November 2007.

At the time, the incident was treated as non suspicious as there was no evidence to suggest any third party involvement as the injuries that led to her death was consistent with a fall and the case was referred to the coroner who recorded a verdict of accidental death.

In November last year following treatment for depression and during a session with a counsellor, Cochrane confessed to the killing of her grandmother, this development was reported to the police.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Hunter said: "This is a very tragic case and while I do not condone what Sarah has done it emphasises the pressure and demand placed on families and relatives who have to provide care for loved ones with progressive and debilitating illnesses.

"Sadly Sarah will have to live with the consequences of her actions for the rest of her life.

"It must also serve as a warning that lying to the courts is unacceptable and will be treated very seriously."