Catherine Wells-Burr death: Tributes to 'an amazing, special person'

Tributes have poured in for “popular and beautiful” Catherine Wells-Burr.

The scene where the 23-year-old’s body was found has become a shrine, with flowers, pictures and candles which are kept lit by her friends.

The former Holyrood Academy pupil graduated from Bath Spa University and worked at Numatic in Chard as an analyst. She lived in Chard with her parents, Jayne and Phil and sister Leanne

A statement was issued last week on behalf of her family and also boyfriend Rafal Nowak who was later charged with conspiracy to murder.

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They said: “We have lost our beautiful Catherine; she was full of character, she was caring, loving, and had a bubbly personality. She had a wonderful sense of humour, and was an amazing, special person.

“Catherine had achieved so much in her short life and had worked so hard to gain her Bachelor of Honours in Business Management, gaining a first class degree from Bath Spa University.

“She was so happy starting her life with Rafal and excited about their future together.

“We would like to express thanks for all the messages of sympathy and support, we have found some comfort in all the kind and thoughtful words that have been said about Catherine and in knowing how well she was loved. She will be sadly missed.”

The family closed their statement by appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Further tributes to Miss Wells-Burr have been paid by her friends, as well as by complete strangers.

A Facebook group entitled RIP Catherine Wells-Burr (Official) has been ‘liked’ almost 8,000 times and amassed hundreds of comments.

Carol Packer posted: “RIP Catherine, I didn’t know her personally but have friends who did and she was a lovely, fun loving, intelligent young girl.

“My heart goes out to her family. Things like this are always shocking but seem even more so when in a small close knit community.

“The people of Chard, Ilminster and the surrounding areas will unite in helping support this lovely family as they are good, caring people.”

Josh Eliezer Matherick said: “I am totally gutted, she was lovely, hadn’t seen her in such a long time and am totally devastated, when you read about something like this you don’t expect it to be someone from your family.”

Matthew Farley said: “I’m still in disbelief . Why and how could anyone do this to a person who is obviously cherished and loved by family and friends?

“I haven’t stopped thinking how the family must be feeling.”

Local sports clubs such as Chard United FC and Chard Rugby Club observed a moment’s silence before their games at the weekend.

A spokesman for Numatic said: “Catherine was a valued employee who worked with us in manufacturing during her university holidays and after graduation as a full-time employee.

“We are all shocked and saddened by this tragedy and our thoughts are with Catherine’s family and all those affected.”

Maurice Hicks, head of Holyrood Academy in Chard, said: “We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear the news. She is warmly remembered as a very friendly young person, gregarious and with a great sense of humour.

“Catherine always had a smile and a positive outlook. She was very popular with the other students and had lots of friends.

“Our sincere condolences go to her family and friends at this difficult time.”

A spokesman from Bath Spa University said: “Everyone is deeply saddened. Catherine graduated in 2011 with a first class honours degree in Business and Management and will be fondly remembered by all those here who knew her.

"Our heartfelt sympathy and sincere condolences are with Catherine’s family at this distressing and difficult time.”