A courageous mother shares her story of having "no regrets" after reporting her own son to the police for the tragic death of a 16-year-old boy.

In a shocking incident last July Donna Delbono a 42-year-old mum-of-seven from Radstock Somerset made the difficult decision to turn in her 19-year-old son Joshua Delbono to the authorities. Joshua had fatally stabbed Charley Bates multiple times over a £20 debt in a pub car park.

In an emotional interview with the Daily Mail Donna explained the weighty choice she had to make saying "Even though it was an incredibly tough decision I know I would do the same thing again. I was raised to understand the difference between right and wrong and to always choose the right path no matter how difficult it may be."

Donna revealed that her primary concern was holding herself accountable for her actions stating "I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if I hadn't called the police. My heart goes out to Charley Bates' family for their loss."

During the trial in Bristol Crown Court the jury listened to the recording of Donna's call to the police which was undeniably harrowing. On the phone she admitted "My son's killed someone. It happened earlier in Radstock. He's now at my house but I cannot allow him to go anywhere."

When asked if Joshua was aware that the call was being played Donna responded "Yes he's here. I've made it clear to him that I have to make this call."

Donna had just returned from a night out with friends when her son confessed to the horrific crime. Joshua told her that he was scared and unsure of what to do but Donna firmly believed that the only course of action was for him to surrender himself to the police.

"He expressed his fear to me but I made it clear that he needed to turn himself in" Donna recalled. "However he was too terrified to do it himself so I made the decision to call the emergency services. He nodded in agreement and I promptly dialed 999."

Donna expressed her concern for her son's future stating "For the rest of his life my son will carry the burden of this tragedy."

Bristol Crown Court learned that the fatal altercation occurred between two groups resulting in Charley Bates losing his life. The teenager suffered stab wounds to his chest and arm and tragically passed away just half an hour later.

After careful consideration Joshua was found guilty of murder and subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years.

This heartbreaking story showcases the challenges faced by a brave mother who had to make an unthinkable decision. Donna's courage in reporting her own son serves as a reminder of the importance of doing what is right even in the face of immense difficulty. The outcome of the trial reinforces society's commitment to ensuring justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.