The family of a retired teacher who was murdered at her isolated riverside cottage have appealed for information to help catch her killer.
In a statement issued by West Mercia Police, the son and daughter of Betty Yates paid tribute to the 77-year-old, who was found stabbed near Bewdley, Worcestershire, as a "lovely character" who was highly popular in the local area.
Describing their mother as a "true lady", the widow's son, David, and daughter, Hazel, said: "We do not understand why or how anybody could have done this and we would urge anyone who has any idea about who is responsible or has any information at all to come forward and tell the police."
Yates was found at her detached cottage off Dowles Road on Wednesday morning after concerns for her welfare were raised by a friend.
The retired school teacher, who taught in the Wyre Forest area, had lived at the property, which overlooks the River Severn, for more than 30 years.
Forensic teams are still conducting inquiries at the cottage and more than 40 police officers and staff are working on the murder inquiry, based at a Major Incident Room set up at Stourport police station.
In a statement issued yesterday, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson, who is leading the murder investigation, said: "Our thoughts are with Mrs Yates's family at this sad time for them.
"Mrs Yates was subjected to a violent attack and we are determined to catch the person or people responsible."
Police search teams spent yesterday combing grassland near Riverscroft and a knife recovered at the scene is being forensically examined.
Several former pupils of Mrs Yates were among those who paid tribute to her on a Facebook group entitled "RIP Betty Yates, the best teacher there was".
Many of the posts described how she had inspired generations of pupils during a lengthy teaching career.
Chris Wilkes wrote on the site: "I'm 43 now. Mrs Yates was one of my first teachers. I have travelled the world and seen many amazing things and I still remember her vividly."
Anyone with information should call the Major Incident Room at Stourport police station on 0300 333 3000 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wish to remain anonymous.