A HAMPSHIRE pensioner who suffers from dementia has pleaded guilty to killing his wife, who died of multiple stab wounds.

Annie Beaver, 81, was discovered by police at the home she shared with husband Peter, also 81, in Sherfield Avenue in Leigh Park, Havant, Hampshire, on November 23 last year.

At Winchester Crown Court today, Beaver pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of his wife of 40 years.

The judge, Mr Justice Teare, ordered pre-sentence reports including psychiatric reports to be prepared.

The court heard that Beaver was suffering from dementia and the judge said his responsibility for his actions had been ''substantially diminished''.

He adjourned the case for sentencing on a date to be fixed and released Beaver on bail.