'Police failed my tragic daughter and I'm still waiting for an apology

DAD DEMANDS MEETING WITH FORCE AFTER WOMAN WAS KILLED BY ABUSIVE EX-PARTNER

- STEPHEN TOPPING

THE grieving father of a woman killed by her ex-partner says he is still waiting for an apology from police - despite a catalogue of failings laid bare at her inquest.

Regan Tierney's family spent five years fighting for justice for the young mum-of-two from Salford.

The 27-year-old was stabbed to death by her abusive ex, Daniel Patten, 31, in what was described by Greater Manchester Police as a 'murder-suicide.

An inquest into Regan's death last month heard she had contacted GMP about Patten multiple times but lost confidence in the force after a delay in responding to her reports.

Jurors at the inquest found Regan had received 'insufficient support and protection' and that there were 'missed opportunities' which could helped her before it was too late.

Regan's father, Dave, 54, wants a meeting with GMP to discuss the errors that were made and says he 'shouldn't have to chase them up!

"My daughter spent years asking for help," he said. "I even called GMP myself and begged them for support. I printed out the forms for a non-molestation order. They were still in her home when she was murdered.

"Regan always confided in me but made me promise not to confront Patten myself. She always said she'd never speak to me again if I challenged him. Now, I would trade that in an instant. I'd accept her never talking to me again if only she was alive.

"The memory of finding her body in a pool of blood will haunt me always. I rang the police and there were suddenly dozens of officers, swarming the street. I remember asking them: 'Where were you when she needed you? You are too late now!