Boyfriend of ex-EastEnders star Sian Blake admits killing her and two young children

Admission of guilt: Arthur Simpson-Kent
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The boyfriend of EastEnders actress Sian Blake has confessed to killing her and her two young sons, the Old Bailey heard today.

Hairdresser Arthur Simpson-Kent, 48, is accused of murdering his 43-year-old partner and her two sons Zachary, eight, and four-year-old Amon in December last year.

He then fled to Ghana before their bodies were discovered buried in the garden of the family home in Erith, Kent.

Jim Sturman QC, defending, told the Old Bailey this morning Simpson-Kent may still stand trial for murder, but he has confessed to killing the three victims.

"He admits the killing, that can be reported", he said.

Sian Blake and her children Zachary, eight, and Amon (right), four

"Any jury will be told Mr Simpson-Kent admits the killing."

Simpson-Kent is accused of three counts of murder, but has not yet entered pleas to the charges while medical reports are prepared.

If he stands trial, it is due to take place on October 4.

He appeared in court via videolink from HMP Belmarsh for today's hearing, speaking only to confirm his name.

The disappearance of Ms Blake, who Frankie Pierre in 56 episodes of EastEnders between 1996 and 1997, sparked a nationwide appeal for information.

Her body was eventually discovered with those of her two sons buried in the garden on January 5.

Simpson-Kent was extradited from Ghana and arrested as he landed at Heathrow Airport in February.

Mr Justice Singh remanded him in custody until the next court hearing.

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