After the trial ended, Lin and Adrian Holford issued a statement saying: "We wish to convey our profound gratitude to so many wonderful people who selflessly came to our aid and continue, expertly and thoughtfully, to support our recovery.

"Staff from the Wiltshire Crime & Communications Centre, officers and staff from Wiltshire Police, Hampshire & Dorset Air Ambulance, South Western Ambulance Service, Southampton General, Great Western and John Radcliffe Hospitals, Great Bedwyn Surgery and Victim Support.

"And also to our family, friends and local community whose special love and support continue to carry us through.

"We would also like to recognise and applaud the care which private, public and charitable mental health services provide to help all those with mental health difficulties.

"Lastly, it may be helpful for us all to ponder the wise reflection of the author and artist Charles Mackesy: 'Everyone struggles with something. Being human is really difficult and we just need to be as kind to ourselves, and to each other, as possible'."

Det Insp Mark Kent, from Wiltshire Police's public protection department, said: “Today’s result is the culmination of months of hard work and diligence by the investigative team.

"Our thoughts remain with Linda and Adrian Holford and hope that they can eventually come to terms with the traumatic events of last year which have devastated their family.

“We are glad that James Wells has been, and will continue to, be able to access the best possible mental health care and support that he needs.”