THE wife of a murdered dad who has campaigned for more support for victims of crime has made her debut as deputy speaker in the House of Lords.

Victims’ Commissioner Baroness Helen Newlove of Warrington presided over a debate last week from the historic, red wool bale known as the 'woolsack', which is said to be a traditional and ancient symbol of Britain’s wealth.

The debate focused on ensuring regulation is balanced, cost-effective, easy to understand and properly enforced.

Baroness Newlove told the Warrington Guardian: “I faced a new challenge when I officially became a deputy speaker in the House of Lords.

"I was very nervous, but so honoured to become part of an experienced team and thank all for such a warm welcome.

"For me, it was definitely a surreal moment but one to cherish.”

Since her husband Garry Newlove's tragic death in 2007, Baroness Newlove has campaigned for better support for victims of crime.

Her husband was killed after confronting a gang of drunken youths who were vandalising a car outside the family home in Fearnhead.

After years of campaigning for victims, in 2012 she was appointed victims’ commissioner for the first time and reappointed in 2016.

Since then Baroness Newlove has been involved in a number of reports and reviews to get the best deal for victims of crime.