THE mother of York murder victim Mark Webb has spoken of her sadness that her son will never see the newest addition to the family, his first grandchild.

The 40-year-old’s daughter, Sammie Luke, gave birth to Jessica-Leigh last week, but the family’s delight has been overshadowed by sorrow. Mr Webb, a father-of-five, died in March after he was found collapsed in the street in Acomb. A man has since been charged with his murder. Jessica-Leigh weighed 8lb 9oz when she was born.

Proud great-grandmother Dianna Atkinson said the arrival of the “beautiful little girl” was tinged with sadness because her son, Mark, was not there for the birth.

“He would have been so proud of Jessica-Leigh and Samantha, her lovely mum, as well,” said the 66-year-old, from Easingwold, who saw her great-grandchild for the first time at the weekend.

“Among the celebrations, there was sadness that Mark will never see his beautiful granddaughter. It is just so sad.

“We are thinking of him as well as Samantha and the baby at this time.”

On her Facebook page, Sammie, who is engaged to Ben Sailsbury, said: “Would just like to say I am a proud mummy to a beautiful little girl.

“A few complications with me but she is all worth it.”

Dianna also used her Facebook page to spread the news of the birth, writing: “Thank you Sammie and Ben for my beautiful great grand daughter, can’t wait to see her. “Just so sad that her granddad Mark is not here to see her he would have loved her xxxx.”

Mr Webb, who grew up in Acomb and lived on Cornlands Road, was found collapsed next to a house in Middleton Road on March 4, after suffering stab wounds to his neck. He was pronounced dead at York Hospital later that day.

His funeral was held last month, where the congregation heard Mark was a “much-loved son, brother, brother-in-law, father and friend to many”, with a “mischievous and fun” personality.

They were also told of the love and pride he had for his family, who he saw every day.

The trial of the man charged with murder Mr Webb, Brian Cox, 29, of no fixed address, is due to take place later this year.