The sentencing of a 16-year-old boy who disfigured a Romford woman by throwing acid in her face has been postponed.

The teenager, who was 15 when he threw chromic acid in Tara Quigley’s face, was due to be sentenced today at Snaresbrook Crown Court in east London.

But he was not produced from the secure training centre he is being held at because they did not know he was due to be dealt with, the court heard.

His defence barrister Howard Cohen also successfully argued for a five-week adjournment for a report to be produced.

A pre-sentencing report has already been done but a psychiatric report will also be produced ahead of sentencing on October 25.

Tara, 28, suffered horrific injuries to her face and upper body in the attack on April 30 this year.

She received extensive medical attention but still has to undergo two more skin grafts next year after the assault at her home in Marshalls Road.

The attacker, who has admitted a charge of throwing corrosive fluid on a person with intent to do grievous bodily harm, is not thought to have had a motive for the attack.

Tara said earlier this week that it remains a mystery why he did it. She said she has suffered “horrible” pain.

Tara answered the front door to the boy, a stranger, who asked to speak to “Michelle” shortly before 9pm on April 30.

The victim told him her name was Tara and he left “quite abruptly” before returning five minutes later with the acid.

Tara managed to shut the door after the assault and rinse her face with water while an ambulance was called.

Her pet dog - a long-haired chihuahua - also required treatment.

Chromic acid is a derivative of sulphuric acid and used for metal plating.

Judge David Radford said sorry for the court’s delay.

“I apologise to the victim who I know has suffered greatly,” he said.