Family pays tribute to murdered Leicester woman

Following the conviction of Frank Farrell for the murder of Smita Mistry in March 2021, her dad has released this statement.

Smita was my only child, she was active and bubbly with an infectious smile. She was friendly and made friends quite easily. She was always smiling, pleasant, and polite.

I have lots of precious memories of Smita and lots of photos of the time she spent with me – times with her as a child when I used to take her to playschemes, swimming, and play parks. These were good times and fun memories.

She was a kind and gentle soul and a good person who meant no harm to anyone. All she wanted out of life was to be loved, and cared for, and have a settled family life.

Smita’s death has left me distraught and empty. I cannot bear to think what she must have gone through and the pain she must have suffered. She was brutally assaulted and murdered. She must have died in horrific circumstances and this is too painful to think about.

I cannot contemplate why anyone could be so cruel as to take someone’s life. What I do know is that Smita will never be forgotten and will always be remembered with endless love.

I would like to thank all the witnesses for their support in stepping forward to give evidence and all those in the Saffron community who have supported Smita and were kind and caring towards her.