Sophie Lancaster killer Ryan Herbert failed in attempt to get jail term cut

Sophie Lancaster

Ryan Herbert, the killer of Sophie Lancaster, failed in an attempt to get his jail term cut. Less than a week before the ninth anniversary of Sophie’s death, Herbert’s solicitors were in court seeking a reduced term for the 'feral thug'.

His lawyers claimed at a High Court hearing that reducing his jail term was justified due to 'good character and behaviour', but the judge said nothing he had done would justify an early release.

Herbert was 16 when he and a gang of friends subjected Sophie and her boyfriend to a brutal attack in Stubbylee Park, Bacup in August 2007. Sophie, who was 20 when she died, suffered horrific head injuries and never regained consciousness.

Herbert was given a minimum term of 15 years after admitting murder. After sentencing, the judge recognised her death as a hate crime because they were targeted for being Goths.

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was set up to create respect and understanding of sub-cultures. The charity works with police forces and politicians to ensure individuals who are part of sub-cultures are protected by the law.

Herbert can only be released after serving his minimum term if the Parole Board is sure he is not a serious danger to the public.