The parents of a young woman who took her own life after being subjected to domestic abuse have spoken about the devastating impact of her death on their family.

Skye Nicholls, 23, was found dead at her home in Lindford, near Bordon on June 9, 2023.

During inquiries into her death, police became aware that Skye had been subjected to abuse by her then-partner, James Edwards, 26, from Horndean, who she began a relationship with in December 2022.

John Edwards of Horndean was jailed for domestic abuse.
John Edwards of Horndean was jailed for domestic abuse. (Hampshire Police)

Police were told that Skye experienced verbal abuse from Edwards, who would threaten her with physical violence, subject her to vile insults and, on occasions, tell her to kill herself.

Edwards was charged with two counts of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, to which he pleaded guilty on September 1, 2025.

He was subsequently jailed for two years and three months on November 7, 2025, but his sentence was reduced to 21 months on February 27 this year following an appeal lodged by Edwards.

Speaking about the impact of Skye’s death, her father Andrew said: “There is no stronger relationship than the one between a father and a daughter. Sadly my dad and daughter bond was cut short on 9th June 2023.

“Skye’s passing has left a very big hole in my life. Not only that, it has had a massive impact on us all as a whole family. This family is now broken.

“I found returning to work very difficult. After a short compassionate leave period, with people asking how you are, having to explain that Skye is no longer with us was so hard and upsetting, and still is.

“The fact that she will never walk through the door with that beautiful smile and infectious personality really hurts.

“They say with time things do feel better - they don’t.

“As for the impact this has had on our son it is devastating, which I don’t think he will ever get over.

“Family celebrations are not really ‘celebrations’ anymore since the light that lit up those Christmases and birthdays was turned off on that horrific day. No electrician in the world can fix that. Only the spark that was Skye could do that - tearfully that is not possible.”

Skye’s mother, Ashlie, said: “The death of my daughter Skye has had a devastating impact on mine and my family’s lives. I feel as though the world stopped and I was plunged into limbo on 9th June 2023 when she was found after taking her own life.

“She was a bright, vivacious, kind and caring young woman who I miss dreadfully. I miss our telephone chats and meeting for lunch. I miss her at birthdays and Christmases as she was the driving force behind the celebrations. Life feels less bright, like a light has gone out.

“I mourn for the grownup mother and daughter relationship we were starting to have. That she will never realise her dream of a supportive, caring partner and children is heartbreaking.

“I fear for my son’s mental health due to the trauma he suffered on finding Skye and worry about him constantly.

“Family occasions, which Skye loved, will never be the same again as a large part of our family is now missing and her loss is as keenly felt today as it was the day she died.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary encouraged anyone affected by domestic abuse to contact police on 101, where they can speak to someone in confidence.

Police said independent support services were also available for people who did not wish to speak to officers.

The force also highlighted Clare’s Law, which allows police to release information about any previous history of violence or abuse a person might have.

Under the scheme, people can apply for information about a current or former partner they are still in contact with if they are concerned that person may have a history of abuse. Applications can also be made about the current or former partner of a friend or relative who may be at risk.