ISLE of Wight cricketer Tommy Barton was killed in a ‘senseless and despicable act of violence’, police say, with the tragic incident painting the stark reality of the immeasurable pain and suffering caused by knives and weapons.

It comes after Cameron Wayne Baker, formally of Leed Street, Sandown, was jailed for his murder.

The 28-year-old, who denied murdering Mr Barton, 30, was sentenced to life imprisonment earlier today (Tuesday), with a minimum term of 21 years. 

He was found guilty at trial, with CPS prosecutors having successfully argued Baker's actions had gone beyond any reasonable expectation of self-defence.

During today’s hearing, emotive victim impact statements from Tommy’s family were read out in court.

Tommy was described as a caring, kind and thoughtful person who was funny, loud, warm, vibrant, and loved by many.

The court heard he loved his life, his daughter, and his family.

After passing sentence, The Honourable Mrs Justice Sara Cockerill DBE commended the members of the public who came to Tommy’s aid and tried to save his life on the night he died.

Detective chief inspector Andrea Douglas, senior investigating officer for the case, said: “This tragic incident paints the very stark reality of the immeasurable pain and suffering caused by knives and weapons.

“Tommy Barton was a young man who was killed in a senseless and despicable act of violence.

“My thoughts remain with Tommy’s family and all who knew him.

“This investigation involved a large number of police officers and staff who worked tirelessly alongside the prosecution team to seek justice for Tommy and his family.

“Cameron Baker will now spend a considerable length of time in prison as a result of his actions that night.

“Knives completely destroy lives, and we urge communities to keep reporting information to us around knife crime, and those who carry weapons.”