THE husband of drama queen killer Jenny Cupit has revealed his heartache at the murder of deputy head Kathryn Linaker - and countered speculation about his marriage.

Computer industry worker Nick Cupit has insisted he knew nothing about former hairdresser Jenny's steamy 16-month affair with Chris Linaker.

It is understood - as revealed in last Friday's GUARDIAN - he is divorcing Jenny and is considering changing his name to avoid stigma for his children, Laura and Ben.

In an emotional statement, he offered his sympathies to Kathryn's parents, Sheila and Kenneth Pearson.

But the Orford father of two admitted he did take part in a three-in-a-bed session with his wife and Chris Linaker in November 1997 - stressing he regretted the "isolated incident." He strongly refuted claims he was involved in video-taping any such material.

Nick says he regarded Kathryn as a "kind, considerate and thoughtful friend" and was sorry he betrayed her.

Pleading for time and space to forge a new future with his children, he paid tribute to continuing support from family, friends and colleagues throughout the ordeal.

He also made it clear he does not wish to profit from the tragic case by selling his story.

Chris Linaker has also spoken about his wife's killing, saying it has devastated him. The computer consultant is said to have given up his job to care for his children - three-year-old Matthew and baby Holly.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.