A MAN has admitted murder after shooting his partner in the head in a “cruel and senseless attack”.

Michael Strudwick, 33, shot Christy Walshe at her home in Sutton Road, Southend, on the evening of January 13.

She died two days later in hospital surrounded by family.

Strudwick, of Sutton Road, was due to stand trial today but changed his plea and admitted one count of murder at Basildon Crown Court on Friday.

Christy’s family paid a loving tribute to her in the wake of the news.

A spokesman for Christy’s family said: “Christy was a mother, a daughter, a sister, a niece, a cousin, and an adored granddaughter.

“As all families, we had our ups and downs, but Christy was loved. She mattered.

“We made the common mistake in believing we had time to put things right. Time to say sorry. Time to say ‘I love you.’”

The spokesman added: “Her death was cruel, violent and senseless.

“We would like to say thank you to family and friends for their love and support, especially as they are grieving themselves.

“Thank you to Essex Police for their work and support, especially to the family liaison officers, who have stood beside us every step of the way.

“And thank you to the emergency services and hospital staff.”

In the hours after Christy Walshe was killed, investigating officer Supt Jonathan Baldwin said: “Courage and resilience shown by the eight officers at the horrendous scene of the Southend shooting.

“This included dealing with the incident and the aftermath including giving first aid to the victim.”

Strudwick also suffered a gunshot wound to the face during the incident and was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition.

It is still unclear how exactly this happened at this stage.

When he first appeared at court, four days later, he stood in the dock with a large, heavy-duty bandage on his chin.

Strudwick was remanded in custody by judge John Lodge after his further case management hearing on Friday.

He will be sentenced at the same court on Tuesday, July 23.

Anyone convicted of murder face a mandatory life sentence but the judge will decide upon a minimum term.