Family Doctor Harold Shipman was Britain's most prolific serial killers. He murdered 215 of his patients, the judge heading the official inquiry into his crimes Dame Janet Smith stated. She also said there was a "real suspicion" that the doctor could have claimed another 45 victims during a killing spree which went unchecked for 23 years.

On Monday, 31st January 2000 the jury at Preston Crown Court in England convicted Shipman - branded 'Doctor Death' by the media - of 15 murders and of forging a will.

Shipman took his own life in prison in early January 2004, never admitting his guilt for the terrible crimes he committed.