Latest news with #CatherineFlynn
Rhyl Journal
21-06-2025
- General
- Rhyl Journal
Catherine Flynn - Rhyl grandmother and ‘queenie' remembered
To her family, she was their 'queenie', and a much-loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and sister. She is survived by her siblings, Jim, Eddie, Joan, Pat and John; her children, Natasha, Catherine, Michael and Marilyn; her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her extended family. Catherine Flynn with her parents, Nick and Kitty Lundon (Image: Family handout) Born to Nick and Kitty Lundon as one of eight siblings, Mrs Flynn grew up in Kirkby, before working in a paper factory, and as a bar stewardess at the Royal Navy Association pub. Mrs Flynn married her husband, Mick, who worked as a taxi driver, in Prescot on May 13, 1991. Catherine Flynn with her husband, Mick (Image: Family handout) Having often holidayed in North Wales, Mrs Flynn and her family moved permanently to Rhyl in 1999. She brought forward her plans to retire and move to the area after her husband suffered a heart attack while on holiday in North Wales, which resulted in him spending a considerable period of time at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan. Rather than travel from Liverpool to see him, Mrs Flynn and her family instead moved to Rhyl, a town which they all loved. Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) She also worked at West End Newsagents in Rhyl, including with her daughter Natasha for a period of time, after her family relocated to the town. Mrs Flynn and her husband spent 12 happy years together in Rhyl, living on Wellington Road, Bridgegate Road and Victoria Road. Following his death in 2011, she then moved to Cefndy Road, where she spent the rest of her life. Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) Her family remember her, among many other things, for her love of gardening, cooking (in particular, her bacon sandwiches and Scouse), watching soaps on television, and country music. She enjoyed having 'McDonald's Thursdays' for several years with her daughter Natasha's family, and day trips to places such as Chester and Llandudno, even after her health problems left her requiring a wheelchair when outside. Mrs Flynn's loved ones have celebrated the life of a woman who was 'adored by so many people,' and who will be 'remembered forever'. Catherine Flynn on holiday with friends (Image: Family handout) 'My dearest queenie, where do I even start? My life with you was amazing. God certainly picked the right mother for me. 'I was always happy, well-dressed, well-fed, always had a lovely home, and was just an all-round happy kid and adult having you as my mum. You would never see anyone without, and always had time for anyone or anything. 'We went on some amazing holidays, younger days were spent visiting our caravan in Wales or other caravan parks, the holidays abroad as we got older were all amazing and even when (granddaughter) Natalia came along, we would enjoy holidays abroad around Spain and the islands, and you taking her on her very first holiday with dad to Qatar when she was just two! 'We had everything and more and it was only later on in life I realised how much you worked and sacrificed for us, just to make sure we never went without and had the best of everything. Natasha Flynn-Farrell with her mother, Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'You made the best roast dinners and pans of Scouse. Even though you taught me exactly how to make them and you very much approved, there's just that little ingredient missing of a mother's cooking I miss. 'I never could make pancakes like yours, though. That was always your and Tal's thing each year, and they turned out just perfect. 'I loved our chats. You always made me laugh, no matter what. You were so funny that even if you had a 'cob on' with me, I'd end up laughing at you. 'Our shopping days were stressful, but gosh we could spend - we would go around retail parks for hours and just ending up back at the very first shops we went to. 'You always loved getting cards in for every occasion, and going shopping for birthdays and at Christmas. 'You were always so pretty; no matter what, you were just gorgeous - how could you not be with those beautiful brown eyes, that sunshine of a smile, and your soft delicate olive skin? (L-R) Natasha Flynn-Farrell, Liam Farrell, Catherine Flynn, Natalia Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'You were dad's soul mate. You two were meant to be and I'm glad you're now back in each other's arms. You were and will always be dad's 'honey bunch'. 'You helped me bring my two babies into the world. Even though Latitia couldn't stay, I'm glad you are reunited with her too. 'You have always been there through thick and thin with me, and gave us your life. You were Natalia's best friend and the pair of you were joined at the hip. Natasha Flynn-Farrell with Catherine Flynn after the birth of Natalia Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'Christmas was always the best occasion ever growing up for us all. You absolutely loved Christmas and you never let it slip away from me; we still got the decorations out every year. 'I'll still carry on my Christmas celebrations especially for you, and I'll stick to the 12 days before and after; I promise. 'You gave the best hugs and kisses. We never left the house without a kiss and hug, or to bed without a 'love you, good night, God bless'. Even as adults, every last phone call ended in those words. 'God only knows how I will miss all that love, those hugs and kisses, the sound of your voice each day, and the sweet aroma of your oil of Olay moisturiser and Loulou perfume. 'Your garden was the best. You were at your happiest just sitting looking at it all, from spring starting out to full bloom at summer, the birds and bees visiting, the crisp leaves falling in autumn and winter, birds feeding and the robins at Christmas time that would always visit. 'I thank you for the life you gave me and Talia, being the best mum and nan, and for the pure love you showed and taught us all throughout our lives. Catherine Flynn with Natasha Flynn-Farrell and Liam Farrell on their wedding day (Image: Family handout) 'I could write a tribute book for you, as for nearly 38 years of my life, there's not one thing I would change of it being your daughter, we will always be each other's 'girls'. 'You will forever be my 'queenie'. It's not 'goodbye', it's 'I'll see you soon!' 'I'll never not speak of you, you will forever be missed and remembered. I love you, goodnight and God bless.' 'She was the best mum anyone could ask for. All of my friends would say they would love to have a mum like mine, or that they wished she was theirs. Catherine Flynn with her daughter, Catherine (Image: Family handout) 'Mum had a beautiful smile, gave loving cuddles, and was my rock and my safe place. She would protect, look after and care for anyone; not just her family or friends. 'Mum never judged, and would welcome anyone with open arms. I am glad I take after her in so many ways and walk in her footsteps. "(Grandchildren) Leo, Ruby, Neil and Chloe always loved going to nan's on special occasions. Her home was filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of love that made every visit magical." 'She was amazing; the best mum I could have ever had or wished for. 'I love and miss you so much. Fly high, mum.' A family photo of the Flynns (Image: Family handout) "My nan was my best friend in the whole word. She had the most comforting presence that we knew we could always count on. "She was always there for me, offering constant support and guidance. I could go to her about anything, big or small, and she would listen without judgment and would always have my back. "She would always be my first phone call. "In my eyes, there was no better person on this earth then my nan, and I wanted to be there for her just as much as she was there for me. Natalia and Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) "She never failed to show me how much she loved me, and I couldn't have wished for a purer soul to have helped me to grow into the women I am today. She was just too precious for this cruel world. "She cut my umbilical cord at birth, and nan was certainly another mother. I would always still have my own bedroom at my nan's, as her home was my home, too. "Every year, we would make pancakes together. Nan was the best cook and always made the best pancakes, Sunday dinners, pans of Scouse and a lovely cup of tea with toast before bed. "I'll never forget you, nan. I will always love, remember and cherish you. Your little star forever, Natalia." 'Cathy was 18 months older than me. As children, we were very close, and as we got older in our teens, she would support my mum and dad, who worked full-time. 'Cathy would make our tea when needed, and always made sure we went to school clean, tidy and nit-free. 'In her early teens, we used to say our Cathy was like a tomboy; she would go around in big Airwair boots and jeans. Cathy was only short in stature, and the boots looked massive on her. It always made me laugh. Natasha and Liam's wedding day. (L-R) Barbara Lundon, Natalia Flynn, Catherine Flynn, Natasha Flynn-Farrell, Liam Farrell, Jim Lundon (Image: Family handout) 'In later years, Cathy moved from Liverpool to Wales, and we spent time with her there. I would ring her and say: 'I'm coming down on Saturday, girl' and she would say: 'I'll have the chip butties ready for you.' 'I never had an argument with her. Not many people can say that about a sibling. Cathy just wasn't like that. 'She was just a kind, caring sister, who always gave the biggest hug and smile when I went to visit. 'I will never get over the loss of my sister and how she was taken from everyone who loved her. The world was a better place when our Cathy was in it. 'I miss you, Cathy. Your heartbroken brother, Jim.' 'Whenever I think about Cathy, the first thing that comes to mind was her kindness for others and her infectious smile. It just made you smile back no, matter how you were feeling. 'Cathy struggled in later years with her health, but that never stopped her. She would still try to put the kettle on when we called in to see her, and we would sit in her beautiful garden; the place she loved to be. Catherine Flynn in her garden (Image: Family handout) 'Cathy will always hold a place in my heart, and is missed by everyone that knew her. 'I had the honour of being a part of her life, and I will never forget the times we spent together. 'Good night, God bless.' "My memories of Cathy are meeting her for the first time many years ago, her welcoming nature, her jet-black hair, and her beauty. "We got on from the first time we met and were the best of friends for a lifetime. Catherine Flynn with her sister-in-law, Joyce Flynn (Image: Submitted) "Sitting at her kitchen table eating roast dinners and chatting about the old times was my favourite time spent with Cathy. "I loved Cathy. She was a big part of all of our lives. I miss her smile that lit up a room. "I love you always and miss you so much, Cathy." 'Cathy was such a warm, loving and caring person to everyone that knew her. She had the most beautiful, amazing smile that she would greet you with; it was hard not to smile back. Liam Farrell and Natasha Flynn-Farrell on their wedding day with Catherine and Natalia Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'She would give you the world, and would have the most beautiful garden wherever she lived. I miss her talks we used to have in the garden, teaching me about all the plants and also about life in general, and the barbecues and the swimming pool every summer. 'She always loved having the family around. I miss sitting down after tea, watching gameshows on TV before leaving her to settle down to her soaps for the night. 'It was a place you always felt at home – that's what she loved doing. She was the best to us all. 'She was my mum, also, and always will be.' 'Cathy was my stepmother, but in our family, we don't do step- and half-family members; we're all just family. 'She was like a second mother, and treated me no differently from my other siblings. Cathy was so gentle and kind as a person, and I could see why my dad loved her. Patricia Flynn with Catherine and Mick Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'She was the only person I'd let do my hair. I would come and stay at weekends when I was younger, and she would sit for hours detangling my hair and checking for any nits because I wouldn't let anyone touch me, and she was the gentlest doing so. 'As an adult, Cathy was still there at the drop of a hat, like always. She was there in hospital when I had my second-born, and was always the best nan ever to my three, Robyn, Kaes and Izzy. 'Cathy would always babysit the kids of a weekend whilst I could have some 'me time'. She would always help us and anyone in any way possible. 'Thanks for treating me as your own, Cathy. I'll forever miss you, and the kids will never forget their nan and how important a role model you were in all of our lives.' "There are not enough words to describe beautiful auntie Cathy. "She and Uncle Mick were both amazing, and couldn't do enough for us. She is sadly missed, but never forgotten." 'To try and capture everything she was in just a few words feels impossible, because Cathy wasn't just someone you knew - she was someone you felt. 'Her warmth, her laugh, her incredible kindness - they wrapped around you like a hug that made the world feel a little softer. Catherine Flynn with her sister-in-law Joyce Flynn, her niece Elaine Swanson, and her daughter Natasha Flynn-Farrell (Image: Family handout) 'Cathy had the most beautiful smile, the kind that lit up a room and lifted your sprit, no matter what kind of day you were having. 'Her laugh was genuine and contagious, and her presence had a way of making everything feel a little more joyful, a little more at peace. 'She had a heart of absolute gold - kin, giving, and gentle. Cathy was the kind of person you felt lucky to know, and even luckier to be loved by. 'No matter what was happening, you could count on my auntie Cathy to be there with open arms, a listening ear, and a roast dinner that could heal anything . 'Her Sunday roasts she made for me and my mum were more than meals. They were love on a plate, served with laughter, good conversation, and the sense that everything was going to be OK. 'Her home was never just a home. It was a haven for everyone. Her door was always open, and it didn't matter who you were or where you came from; Cathy welcomed you in as if you were family. That's who she was. 'She made you feel seen, heard and loved. She gave so much of herself, expecting nothing in return. 'That quiet generosity, that endless compassion - it was her superpower. Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'Cathy was stunning - not just in her beauty, but in the way she moved through life – graceful, genuine and full of love. 'She had a calm strength that held us all together, and a soul that left an imprint on every single heart she touched. 'Losing her feels unbearable. It doesn't seem fair. She should still be here, laughing with us, hugging us, telling us stories at the kitchen table. 'But even though she's no longer physically with us, her spirit remains - in our memories and in our hearts.' 'I never met her sadly (Elaine lives in Australia), but most certainly would have loved her; I just know it. 'I feel very, very sad to have lost an auntie like her. She is reunited with uncle Mick, and is loved and never forgotten by all.' Catherine Flynn while she was pregnant with Natasha, next to Nana Lily and her husband, Mick, in Cornwall in 1986 (Image: Family handout) 'My auntie Cathy was always so kind and caring, but wow; she was a force to be reckoned with. 'I'll always have so many warm, happy memories of auntie Cathy, but two things stick out instantly when I think of her. Catherine Flynn and Alex Walsh (Image: Family handout) 'One is that she made the best bacon baps you'd ever taste - she was what we call a 'proper feeder', always asking: 'Do you want more?'. 'The second thing is that no matter if I was a pain, she'd always get me my own way at the market. 'Auntie Cathy is and will always be loved and never forgotten. I will hold a special place for her in my heart forever, and will always love her to the moon and back.' 'Cathy was perfect in every single way – the most selfless, caring woman, and the best bacon butty maker.' 'I will always remember auntie Cath for her beautiful and contagious smile. 'When I used to go to her house as a kid, she always passed me the Avon catalogue to look through with her. We'd smell the perfumes after scratching the page. 'They are the little things I'll remember forever. (L-R) Natasha Flynn-Farrell, Keisha Walters, Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'Cathy had the most beautiful smile, and would welcome you with open arms. She always had time for you.' 'I could write a book for Cathy. I was the first person in my family to meet her, and I loved her from the word go. The more I saw her, the more I loved her. 'We weren't just family; we became best mates. My lot and I loved visiting - wherever she lived, we were always welcome. Catherine and Carol Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'When she moved to Wales, we'd go over and stay, and she'd treat us like royalty. She was an amazing cook, and always had a story to tell. 'I always felt honoured and privileged to have her in my life. She always had a big smile on her gorgeous face, and she had a heart bigger than herself. We were blessed to have her. "There is no word good enough to describe her, apart from one - 'perfect'. 'Thank you, Cathy, for the memories, and thank you for your time, because you always had time for me. You are loved and missed every day.' 'Cathy took me in and gave me a family. 'I'll never forget mum turning up out the blue when I gave birth to (son) Dillion, and her being so excited to give her grandson his first bath at home. We had so many lovely memories.' 'I just remember her smiley face. She was the kindest human put on this earth. 'We loved her unconditionally, and she will be remembered forever.' 'I only knew Cathy for the year we both lived in Rhyl. She was a good friend, and we used to have a good natter and a laugh together. 'When she came into the pub where I worked, I didn't do any work; we would sit down and leave Geoff and Mick to gab at the bar. 'She was such an honest, lovely, precious friend.' 'My lovely, gorgeous best friend was always having a natter every day. She had the kindest heart, and always would have the kettle on for you.' Tracey Probert and Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'I was Cathy's 'Avon rep' for years and years. She always had a smile, called for a coffee, and finished with the words: 'I'll get Tash to send it, babe.' 'I loved this lady.' "What a beautiful lady Cathy was. Full of life, a smile that would light up a stadium, and trendy as ever. With her purple hair, she reminded me so much of my mum. "Cathy was part of our community meals project for a long time and was loved by all of the team. She loved her puddings. "Natasha, Liam and Natalia doted on her, and she was super proud of every one of them." "Cathy had an infectious smile that would light up any room she entered. "I loved the way she would always be laughing; she truly was a happy soul. "Sending so much love to her forever and always; she'll be gleaming with pride looking down at you all." Cathline Mantle with Catherine Flynn (Image: Family handout) 'I first met Cathy when I was 13 after becoming friends with Natasha. I spent half my teenage years at their home. 'She was one of the nicest, kindest ladies, who would do absolutely anything for anyone. Her kettle was never off – she always made sure you had a brew and were fed before leaving the house. 'I will forever remember Sundays - that was 'roast dinner day' in our teenage years. She give us a time and, guaranteed, we would be ready for then. 'I remember phoning the landline and hoping Cathy was the one to answer because she was a softie. I remember at one point she was doing my washing, and cooking me tea every night, because I was there more than my own home.' 'Cathy will forever be in my memory for her infectious smile and for being the kindest of souls. 'She would help anyone out, and even helped me from time to time when needed. She was such a lovely woman and was loved by so many people, and will be greatly missed.' 'Cathy was the most selfless woman I ever met. 'I didn't know Cathy for very long, but from what I did know, she was a very loved woman and was so kind; always smiling even when she was poorly. 'She was just an all-round lovely lady.' 'I knew of her through her daughters, Natasha and Catherine. I know she filled their hearts with all of the love she gave to them all as her family. Her love, memories will live on within them all. 'She was an amazing lady; loved and adored by so many people.' 'The three memories that stick out most to me about Cathy are our chats and gossiping about Emmerdale; the huge smile she had on her face and how proud she was on Natasha's wedding day; and being the first person to know I passed my driving test and encouraging me to celebrate, even though Natasha hadn't had the best news that day.' 'Cathy and Lily became best friends through their husbands, Mick and Tom, who were cousins. When Mick and Tom passed away, the girls continued to visit each other, even taking the occasional holiday, including to Cork. Catherine Flynn (R) with her friend, Lily Williams (Image: Family handout) 'Lily would always enjoy visiting Cathy in Rhyl, getting the red carpet treatment. 'Lily sadly passed away two months after Cathy. Cathy was always welcoming, and always kind.' 'Cathy was a wonderful woman who adored everyone. 'She was kind woman, who had a wonderful smile on her little face. She is going to be missed by so many people.' 'For over a decade, Cathy was more than just a neighbour; she was a friend. 'Her heart was as generous and loving as it was kind. She made every encounter brighter. She genuinely cared. Floral tributes left outside Catherine Flynn's Cefndy Road home after her death (Image: Family handout) 'Cathy loved the birds as well as her beautiful garden, and now, in a small tribute to her gentle spirit, the birds are still cared for. 'Her kindness lives on in the everyday moments. Her absence is felt, but her presence will never truly be gone. 'She was the best neighbour I could have asked for and her friendship will always be cherished. 'I miss her every day, but she is remembered with gratitude, love, and her radiant, infectious smile.' "I want to take a moment to honour someone who meant the world not just to her family, but to everyone lucky enough to know her. "My best friend's nan was one of the most kind, beautiful, and welcoming people I've ever met. "From the first time I met her, she made me feel like part of the family and later on, also my daughter. "Her warmth, her gentle words, and her endless kindness left a mark on my heart that I'll always carry with me. "She had that rare gift of making people feel seen, heard, and loved without even trying. "Her smile could light up a room, and her hugs felt like home. She was the kind of person who always put others before herself. "Even though she's no longer here with us, her love lives on in the memories we cherish, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely. "She may be gone from this world, but she'll never be gone from our hearts. Rest easy, Cathy." "Cathy was someone who made going to work in the newsagents a joy. "We always had a laugh, and my shift was so much more fun when we were working together." Blake Jumar Peirce Seddon, a grandchild of Mrs Flynn, said his favourite member of her was 'meeting nan for the first time and (dog) Rex barking at her concrete monkey statue in the back garden, thinking it was a real monkey'. Jackie Hughes, a friend of Mrs Flynn's daughter Natasha, described her as an 'angel', while nephew Shaun McGuiness called her 'gorgeous'. Paul Walters, another nephew of Mrs Flynn, described her as 'sunshine', while Mr Walters' daughter, Patsy, added: 'Cathy was a box full of sun rays and daisies. I miss our queen more than I can say.' Linda Walters, the wife of Mrs Flynn's nephew, Colin, said she was 'always smiling and loved her garden,' while another nephew, Jason Flynn, added: 'I loved it when she used to mind me when I was a toddler. She was the best auntie ever.' Family friend Jen Vaughan said Mrs Flynn was 'perfect' and 'beautiful', while Ms Vaughan's daughter, Becky Tyler, added: 'Cathy always treated me and my mum as her own. 'She was like a second mum and nan to us when I was growing up, and did so much for us. She truly was one of the kindest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.'
Daily Mail
20-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Burglar who murdered grandmother, 69, in her own home after her horrified daughter watched the break-in on Ring doorbell is jailed for life
A burglar who brutally murdered a grandmother in her own home while her horrified daughter witnessed the break-in on Ring doorbell footage has been jailed for life. Natasha Flynn Farrell, 38, watched on in fear as the doorbell camera captured the moment Dean Mears, 34, forced his way into 69-year-old Catherine Flynn's seaside home. Harrowing audio captured on a Ring doorbell showed the moment the scaffolder who was 'high on drugs' dragged Ms Flynn, who had mobility issues and used a Zimmer frame, out of bed and repeatedly stamped on her face and neck at least 15 times. Ms Farrell, who received a notification from the doorbell camera at 10:27pm, was left helpless as she heard her terrified mother begging: 'Please don't!' The distressing footage showed Mears shouting 'Where are the keys?' at Ms Flynn pleaded for her life. Then, less than two minutes after the break in, the 43-year-old dived out of the broken window, leaving Ms Flynn with 'severe' injuries and in a pool of her own blood. Tragically, the mother and grandmother passed away in hospital the following day. However, Ms Flynn's quick-thinking to keep the Ring doorbell footage open, helped detectives gain crucial evidence to convict her mother's savage killer. Harrowing audio captured on a Ring doorbell reveals the moment the scaffolder who was 'high on drugs' dragged Ms Flynn (pictured), who had mobility issues and used a Zimmer frame, out of bed and repeatedly stamped on her face and neck at least 15 times Ms Farrell, who received a notification from the doorbell camera at 10:27pm, was left helpless as she heard her terrified mother begging: 'Please don't!' The distressing footage (pictured) showed Mears shouting 'Where are the keys?' at Ms Flynn pleaded for her life Appearing at Caernarfon Crown Court today, he was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum sentence term of 28 years. Judge Rhys Rowlands described the horrific incident as a 'case of unusual savagery, a merciless killing of an extremely vulnerable lady in her own home'. Speaking to Mears, of Kinmel Bay, he added: 'You clearly are an extremely dangerous individual and have shown no real remorse for the dreadful violence inflicted on Mrs Flynn that night.' The prosecutor said Ms Flynn had suffered 'severe injuries' to her face and brain that left her with 'no chance' of survival. Meanwhile, pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers told the jury that the 'catastrophic' injuries were similar to those seen in a high-speed motor vehicle collisions. Adding that they were caused by 'repeated, severe blunt force trauma that shattered all her facial bones', he said: 'He inflicted such severe damage to the face of Mrs Flynn that she had no chance of surviving this vicious, unprovoked assault.' Ms Farrell who said in an impact statement that she still had 'nightmares' about the horrific ordeal in October last year, described re-watching the chilling video of her beloved mum, known as 'Queenie', and hearing the sound of the 15 thuds, as 'like being tortured'. However, she knew that she 'had to watch it play out' and 'had to stay on it for it to be recorded'. The prosecutor said Ms Flynn had suffered 'severe injuries' to her face and brain that left her with 'no chance' of survival. Meanwhile, pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers told the jury that the 'catastrophic' injuries were similar to those seen in a high-speed motor vehicle collisions Speaking directly to Mears, she told the murderer across the courtroom: 'I want my face and words etched into your brain, like you are into mine. The trauma plays over and over in my head'. 'She worshipped her family. My mum's home was her safe space. I will never forgive you Dean Mears. I hope you never see the streets again. 'How could you do what you did to my Queenie? I am lost and frightened and our family will never be the same.' A judge previously said that drugs had 'ruined Mears' life, having began using cannabis aged 13 or 14 before moving on to use cocaine and ketamine. At the time of the incident, Mears had taken ketamine, cannabis and cocaine. Despite calls by many for the decriminalisation of cannabis use, Ms Farrell feels strongly against such view, adding: 'No drug is soft, a drug is a drug for a reason'. After the fatal burglary, Mears returned to his friend's home, and stripped off his trousers and underwear, before being seen on CCTV walking semi-naked in the town. The convicted drug dealer, who had broken every bone in Ms Flynn's face, admitted manslaughter but denied murder on the grounds of diminished responsibility, insisting that he could not remember the incident. The judge told him: 'Mrs Flynn had been an extremely vulnerable lady who was killed by you in what should have been the safety of her own home after you had broken in.' Addressing the jury, he said: 'I can't give any explanation to this terrible thing I have done. I accept I've done what I have done but I had no intention to hurt anybody'. He also claimed that he had mistaken the home in the seaside town of Rhyl, north Wales, for being empty, arguing that he had been targeting a neighbouring house instead. Ms Farrell's family described the mother-of-three as a 'wonderful' woman who would 'help anyone if she could'. They added: 'Catherine was a wonderful mum, nan, great nan, auntie, and sister, and also a second mother to many and a great friend. 'She loved her family more than anything, she was a fantastic cook and was always wanting to feed anyone in her company. 'Her passing has left a huge hole in everyone's hearts, things will never be the same without our Queenie. We've not only lost our mum and nan, we've lost our best friend, our safe place, our security, our backbone of the family and our daily ray of sunshine.' Deanne Mcginty of the Crown Prosecution Service said: 'Dean Mears inflicted a brutal attack on Catherine Flynn in her own home, a place where she should have been safe. 'Mears' actions resulted in a tragic loss of life, and that loss is deeply felt by the family and friends of Catherine. 'Our thoughts will remain with them.' Senior Investigating Officer Superintendent Lee Boycott said: 'Mears broke into Cathy Flynn's home whilst she was sleeping and ferociously and repeatedly stamped on her in a brutal and violent unprovoked attack. 'The injuries Cathy sustained were not survivable and she tragically died the following day in hospital. 'His abhorrent actions that night was witnessed by Cathy's daughter on her doorbell footage, which will undoubtedly stay with her and her family forever.'
The Sun
20-06-2025
- The Sun
Moment burglar smashes into nan's home before beating her to death in attack heard by helpless daughter – as he's jailed
A BURGLAR who beat a gran to death has been jailed for life after he was captured in terrifying doorbell footage smashing into her home. Catherine "Queenie" Flynn, 69, was dragged from her bed by Dean Mears, who broke every bone in her face in the random killing. 6 6 6 Her daughter Natasha Flynn-Farrell was forced to listen to her mum's final moments after the attack was caught on a doorbell cam. Mears has now been jailed for life with a minimum of 27 years after he was convicted of murder. Sentencing, Judge Rhys Rowlands said the killing was "truly horrific" and "senseless". The judge added: "Mrs Flynn had been an extremely vulnerable lady who was killed by you in what should have been the safety of her own home after you had broken in." Footage showed Mears ringing the bell at the home in Rhyl, North Wales, after he had taken cannabis and ketamine. The 34-year-old, who did not know Catherine, was then captured smashing a downstairs window to gain access to the house to burgle it. Once inside, Mears stomped on 4ft 10ins Catherine 15 times in a "senseless" attack. Tragically, the doorbell footage triggered a message on Natasha's phone - meaning she was forced to helplessly listen to her mum. Brave Natasha kept the app open in order to record the video, which provided key evidence in the harrowing case. As a result, she told how she just "had to watch it play out' as her mum desperately begged "please don't". Mears could also be heard yelling, "Where are the keys?" as Catherine pleaded with him not to hurt her. Natasha said: "It was horrendous, it was sickening.' Mears was then captured just two minutes later throwing himself through the broken window and fleeing. Frail Catherine, who used a Zimmer frame, suffered catastrophic injuries before dying the next day in hospital. Caernarfon Crown Court heard after the horror last October, Mears returned to his pal's home and stripped off his trousers and underwear. He was then seen on CCTV walking semi-naked around the town. Mears admitted he had carried out the attack but claimed he had no recollection. Prosecutor Andrew Jones said Mears had left Catherine "dying on the floor of her own bedroom". A post-mortem likened the injuries Catherine suffered to those seen in car crashes. A pathologist said the wounds were caused by "repeated, severe blunt force trauma that shattered all her facial bones". He added: "He inflicted such severe damage to the face of Mrs Flynn that she had no chance of surviving this vicious, unprovoked assault." Catherine's family described the gran as a "rock" and best friend to her three children and said "her house was so welcoming and warm". They said: "Catherine was a wonderful mum, nan, great nan, auntie, and sister, and also a second mother to many and a great friend. "She loved her family more than anything, she was a fantastic cook and was always wanting to feed anyone in her company. "Her pride and joy (after her family) was her love for her garden, she would sit for hours just watching the birds and the bees come in and out of her little wonderland, with every flower imaginable. "We often wondered how her garden was always so beautiful - now we know, it's because she was the ray of sunshine." 6 6 6
BBC News
20-06-2025
- BBC News
Dean Mears Rhyl ring doorbell killer jailed for Catherine Flynn murder
The daughter of a woman brutally killed by a drug dealer has said her life "shattered" the moment she saw the murderer enter her mother's Mears dragged grandmother Catherine Flynn, 69, from her bed and stamped on her, breaking every bone in her face during the attack in October Flynn's daughter Natasha Flynn-Farrell said she watched helplessly after she received a doorbell camera alert of the drug dealer breaking into her mother's home in the seaside town of Rhyl in Denbighshire. Jailing him for life with a 27 year and 128 day minimum term, Judge Rhys Rowlands said Mears, 35, was responsible for a "savage, and quite ferocious and merciless attack". He said the recording captured on the doorbell camera "can only be described as horrific"."It was by all accounts a truly shocking and cruel way to end her life."Mears, from Kinmel Bay in Conwy, was found guilty of murder after a nine-day trial in Caernarfon in jury heard he had taken ketamine and cannabis before breaking into the frail grandmother's home - a woman he had never then smashed a window and entered the home, going straight to Mrs Flynn's could be heard screaming at her before the sickening sound of stamping was captured on the doorbell Flynn was taken to hospital after suffering extensive facial trauma and multiple fractures, where she died the following Andrew Jones KC said she had suffered serious health and mobility issues, and used a stairlift and a walking frame inside her was just 4ft 10in (1.47m) and weighed less than eight stone (50kg). Mrs Flynn-Farrell addressed her mother's killer in the dock on Friday. "You Dean Mears - you can't even look at me," she said. "You didn't just kill my mum - you killed a part of me."You Dean Mears took the light out of my life."I want my words and my face to be etched into your brain."She said she lived with the footage and sounds captured by the doorbell camera during the attack."I hear those thuds to her head, face and neck every day."It replays in my in slow motion - thud, thud, thud."That moment was the vilest, sickening moment of my life."How could you do what you did to my mum - my queenie. You should hang your head in shame."You are nothing but a coward. I'll never forgive you Dean Mears." Pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers told the jury Mrs Flynn's injuries were "the types of injuries you see in high-speed road traffic collisions".The doorbell recording suggested there were up to 15 blows from her admitted he had carried out the attack, but said he had no recollection of what defence team argued Mears had been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), after being stabbed twice following a prison sentence for drug dealing. Speaking to BBC Wales before the sentencing, Mrs Flynn-Farrell recounted the moment she received the doorbell notification to tell her someone was at her mother's front door."It is the worst night of my life I have ever experienced," she said."My life just shattered in that second," she said. "As soon as I clicked on that notification, that was the moment my world crumbled." Mrs Flynn-Farrell was home alone as events unfolded a short drive away at her mother's house, and could only watch and listen until Mears left before she could phone the police."For those two minutes I had to watch that out. It felt like two hours. I was hysterical." Arriving at the house, Mrs Flynn-Farrell was kept outside while police went in to see what had happened to her mother."I did know it was serious but I was trying to tell myself it was going to be OK, that hopefully it wasn't as bad as what I'd heard."But it was awful. It was the worst outcome that could have ever happened for her - and for all our family." Mrs Flynn-Farrell said Mears was "not worth the air we breathe"."To be able to do that to a defenceless, 69-year-old, frail, seven stone little woman. She was like a little doll."He's a monster and he's a coward. Mrs Flynn-Farrell said her mother's murder has had a profound affect on her and those around her."There are so many lives he has ripped apart," she said."The ripple effect this has had - not just on the family, on the community, on complete strangers. It's been a whirlwind of emotions for everyone."She said she was still living with the impact every day."I find it hard most days to get up and go out. I don't want to see anyone, I've lost contact with my friends. "It's given me bad anxiety, depression, PTSD. I don't even watch the telly anymore, in case things trigger it."I'm living a nightmare still." Mrs Flynn-Farrell said she hoped the sentencing could finally bring some closure to the tragedy and wants to be able to help others facing family trauma in the coined the social media tag #JusticeforQueenie as the murder case went through the court system, as a platform to remember her mother and to talk about what had happened."It's not just for my mum - it's for everyone's Queenie," she said."I want this to carry on and be a platform against violence for women and girls. It'll be used to help other organisations, femicide awareness and things like that."
North Wales Live
23-05-2025
- North Wales Live
Police to attend sentencing of murderer Dean Mears over 'trouble' fears in public gallery
Police officers will attend the sentencing of the "abhorrent" murderer of a much-loved nan over concerns for potential "trouble". Dean Mears, who was this month convicted of killing Catherine Flynn in Wrexham, will be sentenced at Caernarfon Crown Court on June 20. Mears' defence barrister expressed concerns that the wider public had been invited in a Facebook post to watch the hearing from the public gallery and "the more the merrier". Simon Killeen, defending, warned that "heat could rise" during such an emotional occasion. But the prosecution told the judge at a hearing today that police officers would attend. You can sign up for all the latest court stories here Last week a jury unanimously found Mears guilty of murdering 69-year-old Catherine Flynn after breaking into her home in Cefndy Road, Rhyl, last October. Mears, 34, of Bodelwyddan Avenue, Kinmel Bay, killed her there but gave no explanation for his actions, the court heard during a nine-day trial. After the jury foreman announced the verdict there had been a thunderous shout of "Yes" from people in the public gallery, with one man there yelling: "Yeh dirty rat." Today there was a hearing for the prosecution to formally offer no evidence against Mears over two burglary charges. Andrew Jones KC said there was "no public interest" in a prosecution on those matters. The judge His Honour Rhys Rowlands directed that not guilty verdicts be recorded in respect of those allegations. He also raised the subject of the sentencing date on the murder conviction. Simon Killeen, defending, said Mears' family have decided not to attend that hearing on June 20. He pointed out the circumstances on such occasions "sometimes cause heat to rise for a period". He added: "There's a flare message on Facebook Messenger inviting as many people as possible to go to attend the sentencing, concluding 'the more the merrier' ", and he warned there could be "difficulties" in the small public gallery. Mr Jones KC told the court the crown would notify the police. "We will ensure there are some uniformed officers there," he added. The sentencing hearing will be held in Caernarfon.
