A teenager has been found guilty of killing 17-year-old Benjamin Orton, in Swadlincote.

The boy was today (Tuesday 14 December) found guilty of manslaughter following a three-week trial at Derby Crown Court.

The jury took more than three days to reach their decision.

Benjamin, who was known as Benji to his friends and loved ones, suffered 13 stab wounds, two which punctured his heart and right lung.

His 20-year-old friend was also seriously injured during the attack, having been stabbed five times in the head and neck.

The friends were attacked on Wragg Passage, near to the Odeon cinema in the late evening of Saturday 12 June.

Emergency services rushed to the scene but Benjamin, from Castle Gresley, sadly died despite attempts to save him.

The 17-year-old, who was 16 at the time of the offence, pleaded not guilty to killing Benjamin.

He was cleared of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent but had previously admitted a charge of possessing a knife.

Two other teenagers, also aged 17, were cleared of all charges, including murder, manslaughter, attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent. One of the 17-year-olds was also found not guilty of assisting an offender.

All the boy's identities are currently protected by law due to their ages.

Detective Inspector Steve Shaw, who led the investigation into Benjamin's death said: "Sadly, no verdict can ever bring back Benjamin Orton but I do hope it may bring some kind of closure for his family and friends.

"As a result of a chance meeting that lasted little more than a matter of seconds Benjamin lost his life at just 17 years of age, his friend may have survived but will suffer the effects of his injuries for the rest of his life."

DI Shaw added: "One thing which can't be denied is how carrying a knife has catastrophic consequences and my deepest sympathies go out to all that have been affected by the case."

The boy was remanded into custody and will appear at Derby Crown Court for sentencing on Friday 14 January.