The families: 'We're free from web of deception'

THE anguish and pain caused by Malcolm Webster's crimes was detailed yesterday by those whose lives were wrecked by his touch.

Claire Morris's brother Peter said: "This is a good day. There is now justice for Claire. The guilty verdict of murder has proven that Malcolm Webster is a wicked murderer.

"I feel today is a good day as the 'psychological sadism' over me and my family and many other people is now broken. As the truth came out, it broke the web of deception Malcolm Webster created around him.

"I hope this will apply to anyone else involved with Malcolm Webster - that they also feel relieved and elated by the conclusion arrived at today. They are now free from the web of deception he had created."

A former lover of Webster said she felt "lucky to be alive".

Brenda Grant, 49, said she had no idea about Webster's crimes and thought he was "too good to be true". The American, who first met Webster when they were both working in Saudi Arabia, told how he also pretended to her to be terminally ill with leukaemia.

Ms Grant, who flew over from Kansas to testify, said they had gone on holiday to Paris in February 2006, during which time he had kept up the charade about his "illness". On the trip, they had briefly rekindled their romance. She said: "Obviously, I feel betrayed. When I look back, I mainly have fond memories and I hate to have them tarnished.

"I feel lucky to be alive based on his previous history. I can remember travelling in Paris on back roads with him in his vehicle, which is what he appears to have used twice to do harm to other women in his life. So I feel pretty lucky to be here."