THE family of a pub landlady who was shot dead have paid a loving tribute to a “cheeky and fun loving” daughter and sister.

Becky Thorpe, 29, was found in a freezer at the Compasses Inn, Snettisham, on March 3.

Her partner Mike Tucker, 49, has been charged with her murder and remanded in custody awaiting trial.

In a statement issued through police today, her family said: “Words alone can’t describe the way we feel and we would like to thank our family and friends for there support at this very difficult time.

“We would also like to show our appreciation to all those people who have sent cards, letters and paid tribute to Becky, many of whom we didn’t know, but who say there lives were enriched by knowing her.”

Miss Thorpe attended Shouldham Primary School before moving to the Downham Market High School, where headteacher Sarah Quantrill said: “Rebecca was a model pupil to teach at school. She was quietly confident and had a great sense of fun.

“She was always a real team player and was loved and respected by both myself and all her team mates.”

Miss Thorpe represented both her schools in athletics and hockey for the high school. She went on to play hockey for the Denver ladies competing in games throughout Norfolk.

Miss Thorpe’s first job was working as a Saturday girl at Timber’s in Fincham where after starting as a kitchen assistant she later trained and qualified as a chef.

She then took the position of head chef at The Kings Arms in Shouldham. A change in career in 2007 saw her train and later qualify as a dental nurse working in Downham Market.

But in 2009 she went back into the pub trade, first at The Dray and Horses, Tottenhill and then her first dream venture when she became the landlady of the The Compasses Inn, Snettisham a little over a year ago.

It was here that she discovered her passion for classic cars as a result of which she bought a 1975 MGB GT which is currently undergoing restoration.

Miss Thorpe was the daughter of Peter and Jane Thorpe, and younger sister to Keith.