Lily Allen's stalker has been sectioned.

Lily - who has daughters Ethel, four, and Marnie, three, with estranged husband Sam Cooper - did not attend a hearing at Harrow Crown Court on Friday, but said she was "left terrified for my and my children's safety" when Alex broke into her home last year.

She added in a victim impact statement: "I had already been incredibly disturbed and upset by the letters Mr Gray sent, and his contact on social media, but the break-in at my home was absolutely terrifying.

"I believe he came into my bedroom that night believing I would be alone.

"The fact that I was not alone was probably the reason why I don't think he went any further.

"I don't think this was a spur-of-the-moment decision, but rather something he thought about for some time.

He thought he knew me, but he didn't."

Judge Martyn Barklem said Gray - who was found guilty in April - had told police he would "cut [Lily] with a knife".

He added: "This was a terrifying experience for [Lily] and it was extremely fortunate there was an adult male in the property who evicted Mr Gray from it.

"I make it clear that the (hospital) order I have made is not a punishment but is entirely for your well-being and that of the public."

In a statement outside the court, solicitor Andy Cave said Gray - who had an unspecified number of previous convictions and was cautioned in 2008 for giving the 'Not Fair' singer a CD of love songs and a letter - never intended to cause any distress to the pop star and will not "pursue" her any more..

He added: "He wishes to assure Miss Allen that he will not be pursuing her any further.

"He is aware he has significant work to do with his doctors and is looking forward to successfully achieving his release."