A 22-YEAR-OLD man has pleaded guilty to killing his mother.

Thomas Fisher stabbed mum Fiona, 51, once in the chest at their family home in Lordswell Lane, Crowborough, sometime between April 25 and 27.

Fisher was due to stand trial for murder at Lewes Crown Court on Monday, but proceedings were postponed until yesterday - when his alternative plea to manslaughter by diminished responsibility was accepted.

He also pleaded guilty to fraud after using a Marks & Spencer Mastercard in his mother's name as well as driving while disqualified.

Police found Mrs Fisher's body while carrying out a welfare check at the home.

Matthew Jewell QC, prosecuting, said two psychiatrists involved in the case had studied a diary written by the defendant.

He said: "There is a journal or diary that was being kept by the defendant.

"Both psychiatrists concluded that it offers significant insight into his state of mind leading up to the events.

"That is the type of evidence that is not open to change."

Mr Jewell said after consultation with the family, it was decided Fisher's alternative plea was "acceptable to the prosecution".

Judge Christine Laing QC adjourned proceedings for psychiatric reports to be prepared.

Fisher, who wore a grey sweatshirt and had a spikey haircut with copper-blond highlights, remained emotionless throughout the short hearing.

He was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on November 1.

A statement released on behalf of Mrs Fisher's family by police at the time of her death said: "Fiona will be sadly missed by her daughter Megan, her mother Dorothy and stepfather Les, as well as her father.

"There are no words to explain the love those around her felt for her, she is irreplaceable."