Gemma McCluskie: Dad will not “desert” Tony McCluskie

Wednesday, January 30, 2013
3:50 PM

The father of former EastEnders actress Gemma McCluskie says he will not desert his son Tony even though he has been found guilty of murdering his sister.

In a victim impact statement to the court Anthony McCluskie said: “This has been the most trying time of our lives and the death of Gemma has been very traumatic for us all.

“The circumstances surrounding Gemma’s death has had a great impact on my life both physically and mentally, and although in great sorrow, I have to remain strong for my son Danny and his wife, my wife, and my grandchildren.

“I also know that my son Tony Jnr is suffering too, and would like the court to know that I will not desert him even though he has committed this terrible crime and taken Gemma’s life.

“I hope and pray that one day Tony will be released from prison with a better understanding of his actions and would ask the court to understand that as a parent, this is how I feel.

“Thank you.”

Speaking outside the Old Bailey after he watched Tony jailed for life for killing his sister, Mr McCluskie said she was affectionately known as “Gemstar or little Gem” by her friends.

“Gemma was a daughter, a sister, an auntie, a cousin, and was very much loved and greatly missed,” he said.

“I would also like to thank the media for allowing us privacy through this very trying time (and) I would just like to say, good night and God bless Gemma.

“We all miss you and love you.”