Former bosses of alleged murder victim Annie Sowerby have paid tribute to her.

Mrs Sowerby worked for Cumbria County Council as a support worker for 16 years until she retired in 2017.

Workington within the Allerdale Day Opportunities team, she supported adults with learning disabilities in Cockermouth, Maryport and Workington between January 2001 and her retirement in April 2017.

A spokesman for the council said: “Mrs Sowerby was a valued staff member and was very well liked and respected by all.

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"Mrs Sowerby had a positive outlook on life, a great sense of humour and treated everyone equally.

"We are all saddened by this news and our thoughts are with the family at such a sad time.”

Mrs Sowerby died at her Main Street home in Dearham on Tuesday.

Her son Lee Sowerby has been charged with her murder.

He appeared in court yesterday and the case was adjourned.