The family of Sarah Everard have paid tribute to her as a “shining example to us all”, describing her as a daughter and sister who “brought so much joy to our lives”.
In a statement released on their behalf by the Metropolitan Police, the 33-year-old marketing executive’s family from York appealed for information to help the force’s investigation.
They said: “Our beautiful daughter Sarah was taken from us and we are appealing for any information that will help to solve this terrible crime.
“Sarah was bright and beautiful – a wonderful daughter and sister. She was kind and thoughtful, caring and dependable. She always put others first and had the most amazing sense of humour.
“She was strong and principled and a shining example to us all. We are very proud of her and she brought so much joy to our lives.
“We would like to thank our friends and family for all their support during this awful time and we would especially like to thank Sarah’s friends who are working tirelessly to help.
“We are so grateful to the police and would like to thank them for all they are doing. We are now pleading for additional help from the public.
“Please come forward and speak to the police if you have any information. No piece of information is too insignificant. Thank you.”
Sarah’s mother and father, Jeremy and Sue, travelled from their family home in York to London to assist in the search when she went missing.
Their statement comes after the Metropolitan Police officer suspected of kidnapping and murdering Ms Everard was taken to hospital for a head injury sustained while in custody.
‘Vibrant, caring and much valued’
Meanwhile the head of Fulford School, where Sarah was a student, spoke of his sadness.
Steve Lewis said: “It was with great sadness that we learnt the devastating news of Sarah’s disappearance and the events of the last few days.
“Sarah was a vibrant, caring and much valued member of our school community. She left Fulford School in 2005.
“She is still lovingly remembered by those who taught and knew her. Her joy, intelligence and positive spirit shone within the school. She was a lovely pupil and friend.
“Her family and friends are part of our community and our thoughts and warmest wishes go to all who have been lucky enough to have had her in their lives.”
