Sold

Number 43 Rutland Close, the scene of one of the most brutal murder incidents in history, is believed to have been snatched up for a bargain price of £159,000.

And now, for the first time since the horrific crime in July 2000, the house where 49-year-old Robert Mochrie beat his wife Catherine, 45, and their four children James, 18, Sian, 16, Luke, 14, and Bethan, 10, to death, no longer lays empty.

The property has long been the subject of rumour and speculation.

It initially passed to former Wales International rugby player Terry Holmes, the brother of Mrs Mochrie.

But due to a number of factors including Robert Mochrie's debts of £200,000 and legal wrangles, the house could not be sold immediately.

It then underwent extensive refurbishment before being placed on the market by Barry estate agent Chris Davies.

With five bedrooms and a modest back garden, the house is an ideal family home.

Although it is believed to have been valued at £220,000, it was rumoured that the house was sold for the bargain price of £159,000 to a young mother and her three children.

But estate agents Chris Davies, based in High Street, would not confirm the price the house was worth, or the price it was sold for.

Branch manager Steve Nicholls said: "I can confirm that the house has been sold subject to contract to local people.

If the sale goes ahead, I would hope that the people who live there will be left alone."

Neighbours in the quiet Highlight Park cul-de-sac echoed his views.

One Rutland Close resident, who did not want to be named, said: "Some people have called for the house to be demolished, but it would be better if a family moved in.

"I think it's about time everyone left this place alone and gave someone the chance to make the place happy, make it a home again."