Susan Howells' partner Stephen Byard was murdered on June 7, 2008 by Martin Argyle.

On December 18, Argyle was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murder at Nottingham Crown Court. He had stabbed Stephen Byard of Lower Somercotes through the heart with a screwdriver, close to the Boot and Slipper pub in Swanwick.

Speaking from her home on Western Avenue in Swanwick, Susan told the News that the months since Stephen's murder have been 'horrific' and branded Argyle 'Evil'.

She said: "Saying I hate Martin Argyle is too nice, I just think he's evil for taking an innocent person away. He obviously didn't plan it out - he wasn't as clever as he thought."

On June 7, the day of the murder, Susan, 37, met Stephen, 55, in the Boot and Slipper pub. They had arranged to meet following a disagreement earlier in the day but soon put that behind them. When they left the pub later that night they were offered a lift home by Stephen's son Brett but decided to walk because it was a nice night.

Shortly afterwards they came across Martin Argyle, who stabbed Stephen in the street. He died shortly afterwards after suffering a heart attack.

Susan said: "Sometimes I still cannot believe it. Steve was my life. We did everything together. He was a very kind and generous man. My three boys thought he was great and were happy for him to be such a big part of our lives. They will always speak highly of Steve and be proud that they had the pleasure of knowing him.

She added: "All we wanted to do was enjoy the simplest things which we did do because we were very happy together. We did everything together and it just doesn't seem real."

Though her life will never be the same Susan remains strong for the children: "I miss Stephen,' she said 'I wish I could have him here but I'm not going to let Martin Argyle ruin mine and the kids lives.

"When I separated from Martin Argyle I wanted to sort things out amicably. It made sense to me and I thought as it had been so long since we seperated we'd both moved on with our lives. Maybe if people hadn't been so interested on mine and Stephen's relationship and hadn't listened to vicious rumours we could have had the rest of our lives together."

Speaking about what happened on the fatal night Susan said she had never imagined what was going to happen: "I thought we (her and Argyle) were just going to have this big row and that would be it.

"When we went to the hospital that night I was relieved, I thought it would be ok but no one could have been prepared for when the doctor said Stephen was dead. It was like a bad dream, you never think it's going to happen to you."

Susan is pleased with the verdict and feels justice has been done. She said: "I'm happy with the outcome but feel like a different person
"I was nervous about going to trial but knew I had to do it for Stephen and his family. Getting through he last six months has made me a stronger person and nothing is going to knock me down.

"I knew the truth would come out in court and am so relieved that justice has been done. Whatever anybody has done to take Stephen away from me they will never take away what we had together. Steve gave me an experience in love and life that was so special and perfect and for that there will always be a part of my heart that will be Steve's forever."

A statement from Stephen's family, including his mum Jean and dad Jim, read: "As a family we have no sense of victory, although justice has been served through the courts. We miss our son dearly and this sentiment is shared by his sister Carole, Stephen's sons, girlfriend, nephew and niece, also the many friends he had through his love of motor bikes and rock music. Many attended his funeral.

"To everyone we give our heart felt gratitude for all their cards and kind words. They will always be treasured.

"Stephen was sensitive as a person towards his family, but we suspect that side of his nature was hidden from his friends. We are told that he would do anything for anyone who had a need, again this was reflected by the tributes made at Stephen's funeral. He loved his music, especially his guitar which was his pride and joy. We remember with fondness, as a boy, the times he would practice with his school friends. He carried this love of rock music into his adult life.

"The photos that the Ripley and Heanor News printed during the trial showed Stephen smiling - this is the real Stephen that we all knew and loved. The real Stephen that for those that knew him, miss so much.

"Martin Argyle has a long time to reflect on his actions, for the son that he has taken from us. The father he has taken from his sons. Our pain will continue. There is no victory, only justice for Stephen's life being taken from us all. To those who knew and loved Stephen 'God bless you.'