Jealous soldier murdered lover

edea Redanies was a Serbian who signed up as a private in the British Swiss Legion to serve in the Crimean War and garrisoned at Shorncliff Camp, near Folkestone.

Nearby, at 5 Albion Place, Dover, were the Back family. John and

Mary Back’s daughters Caroline, 19, and Maria, 17, were regular visitors to the garrison, having to pick up laundry items. It was during one of these visits that Redanies first spotted Caroline and decided she was just the kind of girl he would like to have on his arm.

Twenty-six-year-old Redanies and Caroline soon began dating and Redanies was smitten; frequently writing loving letters and offering a portrait of himself.

However, the course of true love rarely runs smoothly and, when the Crimean War ended, Redanies was transferred to Aldershot and it became more difficult for the couple to meet.

Nevertheless, Redanies was sure their enforced separation would not jeopardise their seven-month-long relationship - but his confidence took a huge knock when he saw Caroline walking out with an artilleryman.

Although Caroline insisted the man was just a friend Redanies was heartbroken and angry - particularly as Caroline’s interest in him had begun to wane.

Determined to salvage his relationship he turned up at the Backs’ home asking to see her. An amicable chat ensued before Caroline handed back his love letters and the portrait and insisted he leave as she was due to catch the 6.15am train to Folkestone the following morning.

Caroline, at this time, was in poor health so Redanies suggested they instead meet up and walk the nine miles to Folkestone together and allow them time to discuss their relationship.

John and Mary Back were not keen on the idea, but Redanies suggested the early morning fresh air would be beneficial and her parents eventually agreed - on condition that Maria escorted them.

Redanies returned at 3am to share breakfast with the family and all three seemed in good humour as they left at 5am.

Just three hours later, Folkestone carpenter Thomas Gurling arrived at a spot known as Steddy Hole, Capel-le-Ferne, where he discovered Maria Back’s body. A few yards further on, Mr Gurling was further horrified to find Caroline’s lifeless body.

Both girls had multiple stab wounds and their clothes were soaked in blood. Each girl was still wearing their bonnets and gloves, but their silk capes were missing.

It wasn’t long before Dedea Redanies became the prime suspect.

The following day, police officer George Fryer’s attention was drawn to a young man acting in a strange manner as he approached Milton Chapel Farm on the road between Canterbury and Chartham.

As Fryer approached he was horrified to see the man pulling a knife from his breast before collapsing. Redanies, it appears, had attempted to end his life.

A local doctor was summoned to administer first aid and Redanies