A HUSBAND who repeatedly stabbed his wife to death during a Boxing Day attack has been sentenced to life in prison.

Laurens Brand, of Parker Close, Shinfield, admitted to the murder of Angela Mittal at Reading Crown Court in March and faces a minimum of 16 years and eight months behind bars.

The 47-year-old called 999 minutes after he violently stabbed his wife, nearly 60 times, in the neck and chest.

Mittal, 41, was described as 'a kind and generous' person by her family.

A statement released by the family added: "Angela Mittal, was a popular young lady known for her sweet and enduring wit. Her life was tragically cut short due to a senseless crime.

"Angela truly lived life to the fullest through the simple pleasures; chatting with friends, spending time and enriching the life of her family and always seeing the brighter side to life.

"She had this beautiful talent to bring people together from all walks of life and touch them in a deep and positive way.

"Angela was known for her creativity, kindness and big heart. The friendships, generosity and enthusiasm she displayed throughout her life is an inspiration to us all.

"Angela will be missed beyond words; her love, warmth and beauty will remain alive in her family and friend's hearts."

Brand called police to tell them he had killed his wife and said he had used two different knives.

Officers were called to Parker Close at around 5.40am and the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detective inspector Mike Roddy, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “This was a brutal assault carried out by Laurens Brand on his wife, Angela Mittal during which she suffered 59 separate injuries.

“Brand subjected Angela to this vicious attack in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe and secure.

“Instead of helping Angela, he tried to clean up before calling 999. When he did call, he didn't ask for an ambulance, he asked directly for the police already in the knowledge it was too late for Angela.

“This has been an extremely difficult time for Angela’s family and I would like to thank them for their help and support throughout this investigation “I'd also like to commend them on the courage they have shown, especially today when having to explain what the loss of Angela means to them.

“It is never easy time lose anyone, but in such violent circumstances, in her own home, it is unimaginable.”