Man given life for stabbing partner to death before blowing up house
Clifton George, 45, stabbed his long term partner 46-year-old Annabel Rook to death in June last year.
Last updated 9th Jun 2026
A man has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 23 years for murdering his long term partner before blowing up their family home.
Clifton George, age 45, had claimed he lost self control when he stabbed Annabel on the 17th of June 2025.
Annabel had tried to end her relationship with George after the court was told a pattern of abuse.
After killing her, Clifton George then set fire to a gas cannister in their home, causing an explosion that ripped through their home.
It took a jury just over 2 hours to convict Clifton George for Annabel's murder, and two other charges of arson and intent to indanger life.
Following his conviction, Annabel's father Peter Rook said "Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. One of the world's life enhancers. Above all else, she was a much loved mother devoted to her two fine sons. She was also a superb daughter, sister and, for so many, a close friend. Ironically, she was at the height of her powers in her tireless work to help vulnerable women.
"She had so much more to give. At least now there's been justice. But nothing will bring her back. We can be sure that her spirit will continue to inspire so many. During the trial, it has been almost unbearable hearing the years she herself suffered abuse and then the nature of the horrendous attack. It was clear on the evidence that until the very end, she was incredibly courageous, trying to help others rather than safeguarding herself.
"She dedicated her life to helping others. She worked in refugee camps and schools. She co-founded MamaSuze to provide creativity and support for refugee women. She lived 46 altruistic years in which she gave so much to so many. We know that it would have been Annabel’s wish that her life should not be defined by her tragic death, but by the rich legacy of love and support for the vulnerable."