The family of a graduate murdered by her obsessive soldier ex-boyfriend have encouraged other victims of stalking to speak out.

Alice Ruggles, 24, was left to bleed to death in her own bathroom after being attacked by Lance Corporal Trimaan "Harry" Dhillon with a carving knife.

The 26-year-old SAS hopeful had terrified her and alienated her from her friends, but despite complaining to the police Ms Ruggles chose not to have him arrested.

Alice Ruggles murder trial: Scots soldier found guilty of stalking and murdering ex-girlfriend

In a statement made through the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which helps people avoid becoming victims of violence, her family said her loss would stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Mother Sue said: "I just keep thinking I can't believe we didn't identify the signs of stalking but you just don't know when it's going on.

"Unfortunately when Alice reported it to the police she was very reluctant and told them she didn't want to get him into any trouble. He hadn't been violent just very arrogant and controlling.

"In fact he told her via texts several times 'I don't want to hurt you'. He texted me saying he wouldn't hurt her but implying that it was my duty to stop her being disrespectful to him. And he sent me messages at 4am.

"I would like what happened to Alice to encourage others to seek support if they are worried about someone's behaviour. We hope to work with Suzy Lamplugh Trust to raise awareness of the danger signs of stalking."

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Clive, her father, said: "All of us are trying to cope with losing Alice in different ways. We all miss her very much and it is a case of taking one day at a time. The effects of losing Alice will be with me and with all of us, every day, for our entire lives."