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William Campbell, 26, plunged a kitchen knife into Samuel’s chest in a fit of rage after he took exception to the way Samuel was speaking to his own pet. A court heard the brothers’ mum tried desperately to intervene but William, who had downed the “lion’s share” of 25 vodkas, as well as lager, stabbed his sibling with such force that the blade went through his breast bone and into his heart. 

Sentencing the killer at Newcastle Crown Court, Judge Paul Sloan QC said: “The argument had been over something totally insignificant but in your drunken state you became frustrated and got it into your head you had a score to settle with your brother.

“It went beyond spats that can occur between brothers, involving the use of weapons resulting in injury and a former girlfriend said you previously threatened Samuel with a knife.

“You will have to live the rest of your life in the knowledge you murdered him.

“I have no doubt you bitterly regret your actions that night and I take that into account and I note you wish to atone for what you have done.”

William Campbell, who denied murder but was found guilty by jurors, must serve at least 21 years in prison.

The murder has devastated the family, reports Chronicle Live.

Samuel’s girlfriend, Alice Gray, a teacher, read a moving victim statement in court.

Miss Gray said: “It has utterly devastated my life and broken my heart beyond anything I knew possible.

“I have to somehow live on with an amazing, gentle, kind man by my side.

“He was the love of my life, my best friend and he has left this world in such a violent, horrible way.

“The impact has been catastrophic. I will never forget hearing the news, I couldn’t understand my Sam was not coming back.”

Miss Gray has seen various counsellors but is still struggling to cope with her loss, the court heard.

To add to her distress, the court heard she had two false positive pregnancy tests after Samuel’s death.

Samuel, 24, was attacked in the family home in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, on June 18.

The brothers, described as “chalk and cheese” by their mum, Carolyn Campbell, had been drinking separately when the argument blew up in the back garden.

A document found on the council worker William Campbell’s laptop indicated he had subjected his younger brother to violence in the past. He has no previous convictions however.

Nicholas Lumley QC, defending, said the brothers’ father had provided a statement saying they grew up extremely close to each other and used to share a bedroom.

The court heard Willliam Campbell has gained employment in prison, where he is a mentor and a “completely trusted prisoner” and has started studying for a degree.

Mr Lumley said: “He speaks of doing good things in his brother’s name.

“He is anxious to be released as soon as my lord feels able but he knows he must do his time.”

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