Ashley Wadsworth: Friends and family pay tribute to 'kind and caring' woman

Ashley Wadsworth died after police were called to reports of a disturbance in Chelmsford

A Canadian woman whose boyfriend is charged with her murder was "cheerful and kind to everyone", a friend said.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, of Vernon, British Columbia, was pronounced dead when police were called to Tennyson Road in Chelmsford, Essex, on Tuesday.

Her cousin Melissa Locke said the family was thankful for the work of police and tributes at the scene.

Jack Sepple, 23, of Tennyson Road, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday via video link.

He spoke only to confirm his name and was remanded in custody until next month, with a provisional trial date set for September.

Ms Wadsworth had met Mr Sepple through an online dating app and wrote on Facebook that she had moved to Chelmsford in November.

Mr Sepple had a blank expression when he appeared at court via video link, the PA News agency said

Earlier this year, she posted photos online of her "amazing trip to London", where she had been sightseeing.

Ms Wadsworth's cousin Melissa Locke told the BBC: "It's been really hard to be this far away and the detectives have been really good at informing the family and keeping in contact, so we're really thankful for that.

"I guess there's a vigil, some candles and flowers for her - that was really touching for us to see. We're really thankful people are sharing those kinds of things with us because that's what we want to see."

Ms Wadsworth's cousin Melissa Locke said the family were thankful for flowers and candles left at the scene

Speaking to BBC Essex, Miss Dizon said she and Miss Wadsworth had become friends at high school in Vernon.

"She's a genuine, caring honest and funny friend," she said.

"Whenever I have a problem, she's always got my back.

"It doesn't feel real, I still can't believe that she's gone.

"She was a beautiful person."

"She must be one of the nicest and down-to-earth individuals I know," she added.

Another friend, Tianna Kowalchuk, said she had lost "her best friend", saying it was one of the worst feelings.

"God has you in his hands now, we have you in our hearts forever," she added.