A CONVICTED murderer has returned to prison after admitting his part in a robbery.

James Gubb was 19 when he was handed a life-sentence for murder in June 2000.

A month earlier, a jury took just over an hour to find Gubb guilty of murdering 18-year-old Tony Mahoney at Canvey’s Kings Holiday Park.

The court heard how the pair had come to blows earlier that night when Mr Mahoney kicked Gubb in the face, breaking his nose. Moments later, Gubb - armed with a knife - went to look for Tony and stabbed him three times in a vicious revenge attack.

Surgeons at Southend Hospital battled to save the victim’s life but could not restart his heart when it stopped.

The court heard Gubb had enjoyed a normal childhood and there was nothing in his past to indicate he would become a murderer.

Throughout the trial, Gubb maintained his innocence and only admitted his guilt 18 months after the fatal attack after initially launching an appeal against his conviction.

Criminals serving life-sentences such as Gubb cannot be considered for parole until they have “faced up” to their crimes and admitted guilt.

His grandfather Norman Gubb told the Echo at the time: “He dropped his appeal because if he carried on with it he would have to continue serving a 25-year sentence.”

He was later released on a life-licence which can be revoked if he reoffends.

Tilbury-born Mr Mahoney was the son of former Fulham footballer Tony Mahoney Snr and knew Gubb from school on Canvey. His mother Michelle Harrison found out about the confession after receiving a letter from victim’s services.