Garage worker accepts responsibility for killing of school teacher Sabina Nessa

A garage worker has accepted responsibility for the killing of primary school teacher Sabina Nessa, but has pleaded not guilty to her murder.

Ms Nessa was attacked while walking to meet a friend at The Depot Bar on September 17.

She had left her home in nearby Astell Road and her body was found the next day in Cator Park by a member of the public.

At the Old Bailey, Koci Selamaj, 36, of Terminus Road, Eastbourne, pleaded not guilty to her murder but accepted responsibility for her killing.

Prosecutors had previously told the court that the attack was  “premeditated and predatory” and that Ms Nessa had been repeatedly struck with a 2ft weapon.

Senior judge Mr Justice Wall asked defence barrister Aidan Harvey: “Is there any dispute your client killed Ms Nessa?”

Mr Harvey said: “There is not, my Lord. He accepts he killed her.”

The defendant, who was assisted by an Albanian interpreter, spoke only to confirm his identity and enter a not guilty plea.

He was remanded in custody. A further hearing was set for February 25 and a trial was set for June 7.