Those were the words of Yasmin Hassan, Ahmed's mother, who said in a statement to the court that her son had "really cared about people" and life without him would always be empty.

She said: "Ahmed was everything to his family, he was our shining star and had a lovely smile and a selfless attitude."

Mrs Hassan said Ahmed had been studying for his A-levels at Heckmondwike Grammar and wanted to become a lawyer.

She said: "Ahmed was totally focused on achieving his goals in life and was dedicated to doing his best in all areas.

"Life without Ahmed is very difficult and at times seems empty and meaningless. Our family life without Ahmed will never be the same and we will miss him greatly."

After passing sentence, the Recorder of Leeds, Judge Peter Collier QC, sent his condolences to the family.

He said: "I know the sentence will never compensate for the loss of their son Ahmed. I hope that what I understand to be their deeply held faith will sustain them and that the passage of time will eventually dull that pain."