A 92-year-old man has admitted to killing his 87-year-old wife in what he described as a suicide pact. Laurence Billam smothered his wife, Shirley Billam, at their home in April.

At a hearing held via video link from prison at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday, Laurence Billam pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, while denying a charge of murder. He is scheduled to be sentenced in November.

According to court reports, the couple had agreed to end their lives together at their sheltered apartment. Laurence Billam expressed concerns about leaving his wife with any responsibilities should he die first. He left notes explaining his actions, which were discovered by authorities after family members raised concerns.

Shirley Billam was found deceased at their residence, while Laurence Billam survived after overdosing on prescription medication. The judge overseeing the case, James Patrick, described the situation as "a rather unusual case" and acknowledged the emotional difficulty faced by the family. Laurence Billam remains in custody pending sentencing.