Tributes have been paid by the family of a Colchester woman who died from stab wounds.

Kirsty Humphrey, 23, was pronounced dead at her flat in Queen Elizabeth Way, Colchester, on Wednesday morning.

Her partner Paul Czapla, 24, was due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court today charged with her alleged murder.

Kirsty’s mother Nicky Humphrey and her partner Michael Plane said: “A light went out the day when Kirsty died. She was a beautiful person who was happy and always smiling. Kirsty loved her baby daughter so much and was a truly caring mum who always put her first. Kirsty wasn’t just my daughter she was my best friend and I am so proud to have been her mother.

The statement continues: “The lives of my family and friends have been shattered, along with Kirsty’s friends, and will never be the same again. None of us will ever recover from this tragedy, our lives are changed forever. But in your memory we will care, guide and look after your darling daughter who is so much like you.”

Kirsty’s sister Danni Humphrey said: “Kirsty was more than a sister to me – she was my best friend. She had a bubbly personality and would always ‘light up a room’ when she entered. Kirsty was liked by everyone – she was beautiful and would never leave the house without looking her best with her make-up on and hair done. She was an amazing person to be around and never failed to make me smile.”