The first picture of a murder victim has been released after his girlfriend was jailed for causing his death.

Father-of-two Dale Bond, 45, was stabbed twice by his partner Bailey Heywood, 23, at his home address in Mullein Road, Bicester on March 13 this year.

Heywood was jailed for life with a minimum term of 17 years and 181 days at Oxford Crown Court on Monday (September 16).

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Mr Bond's family, through Thames Valley Police, have since released a photo of the victim as well as paying him tribute.

Dale BondDale Bond (Image: Family handout)

His father, Ged Bond, said: “My son Dale Richard Bond was born on Tuesday, August 9 August, 1978. I was so very proud.

"Dale was a great lad growing up - caring and cheeky, with an infectious laugh that was so memorable and which was an immediately recognisable part of him throughout his life.

When Dale’s sister Lucy was born, Dale thought he might be able to 'boss her about' but she stood up to him valiantly and they formed a deep and unbreakable bond that will never be broken.

"As Dale grew up, his personality shone, he was very popular and had many friends.

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"If you were lucky enough to have Dale as a friend, you would have a friend for life.

"He was loyal and supportive and would do all he could to be there for you, even if this was inconvenient for him or caused him to change his plans at short notice.

"Dale had a strong and sustained work ethic throughout his life.

"If he could, he would work seven days a week, he was the absolute opposite of workshy.

"He adored his two children and always worked hard to provide for his family.

"Whatever Dale did he excelled at it - from Judo to football and many other pursuits.

"Dale was one of the kindest men you could meet. He was a bright, witty, talented and handsome young man with a wonderful sense of humour. Dale brought fun and vitality to all his encounters and was great company.

"Whenever we visited him or when he came back to Boston, he would tell me how much he loved me and could become very emotional.

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"For a son to do this and be able to show his true feelings towards me, his father is something I am so grateful for and is also the thing I will miss the most now he is no longer here.

" I am very honoured and proud to have had Dale as my son and he is greatly missed.

" I treasure the precious memories I have of him, and hold them in my broken heart - until we meet again.”