Tommy Scott admits murdering Gerald Pragnell and leaving his body near Southampton Common

Tommy Scott, 34, appeared at Winchester Crown Court yesterday where he pleaded guilty to killing 66-year-old Gerald Pragnell, before leaving his body in woodland off Cemetery Road.

Mr Pragnell’s body was found on Saturday, November 3, which led to police sealing off the area while they combed through the woodland for clues.

Scott, of no fixed abode, also admitted breaching a suspended sentence for a previous conviction, details of which were not given in court.

He spoke only to confirm his name and enter a plea when he appeared at Winchester Crown Court yesterday via video link.

During the brief hearing, Matthew Jewell QC, defending, called on Judge Keith Cutler, Recorder of Winchester, to allow Scott to also appear at his sentencing via video link.

Judge Cutler said he would consider the request, although one of Mr Pragnell’s family members has asked to read out a victim impact statement in court when Scott discovers his sentence.

As previously reported, airport worker Mr Pragnell was reported missing on November 2, having not been seen since 6.30am the previous day.

Few details of the murder were given during Thursday’s hearing, but at Southampton Magistrates’ Court in November the prosecution said Mr Pragnell had been strangled.

Prosecutor Simon Jones, suggested Scott, who is facing a life sentence for murder, should be given a minimum of 30 years in prison.

Following his murder, Mr Pragnell’s family, who were in court yesterday, paid tribute to him and said: “Dad was a loving father, grandad, partner, brother and uncle.

“He was a genuine, hard-working and caring family man who was adored by all who knew him.

“He was a natural joker who lit up the room with his mischievous sense of humour.

“We have so many stories and memories that will always remain with us and he will always be hugely missed by us all.

“Dad was taken from us much too soon and we’re devastated that he won’t be part of our future.”

Mr Pragnell, who worked for parking firm APCOA at the airport, lived on a houseboat at Shamrock Quay, near where his son has boat building business.

Father and son were featured on a Channel 4 documentary My Floating Home.

Judge Keith Cutler adjourned the case until February 14, when Scott is due to be sentenced.