The parents of Sarah Payne who was murdered by a paedophile, have called on the government to create a minister for victims.

Sara and Michael Payne have been speaking at a special conference in South Shields organised by the North of England Victims' Association.

Members are calling for more help for the families of those affected by crime, and not the offender.

The Payne's said they felt humbled to be at the conference which is calling for better treatment from the criminal justice system.

When you have had someone take from you a life, a light goes out

David Hines

During a break in the conference Mrs Payne said: "People in our position should not have to be fighting.

"We should be looked after, understood and then able to fade into the background.

"We need a minister who understands."

The couple travelled to the north east with their three children from their home in Hersham in Surrey.

On your own

Delegate were told there were 105 groups for offenders and their families and no single body which represented victims and their relations.

David Hines, whose daughter was murdered by her ex-boyfriend, set up the Association.

"When you have had someone take from you a life, a light goes out.

"It is only then you find out how alone you are.

"But the good thing about conferences like this is you find out you are not alone."