A judge has refused to sentence the man guilty of murdering his fiancee because he failed to turn up to court.

Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC refused to sentence Ivan Griffin, 24, via video-link at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, insisting he should be appear in person at court to "face up to what he has done."

Griffin faces life behind bars for knifing 38-year-old Sabrina Mullings to death at her home in Upper Norwood on March 13.

Addressing the family of Ms Mullings, the judge said: "Unless you say anything now, I'm going to say Tuesday.

"I am sorry because I know you would like the matter to conclude and I understand that.

"But there are other factors, I am sure you will understand, about dealing with a case of this gravity."

Griffin, a roofer, ranted about "releasing demons" and "drinking blood" during the attack, and later claimed he was mentally ill.

He is now due to be sentenced on Tuesday, October 10.