Stabbed policewoman's family mourn 'our loving daughter'

The family of a rookie policewoman found stabbed and killed in her flat spoke today of their loss and grief for their "loving and lovable daughter and sister".

Melissa Ward, 28, was found by stunned colleagues who made the grisly discovery after smashing down the door to the flat on Friday evening.

The probationary Leicestershire Pc was found dead along with her partner, 33-year-old Benedict Marlow, at her home in The Sidings, in Oakham, Rutland.

A post-mortem examination found both died of stab wounds. Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths.

In a statement Melissa's parents and brother said they were "utterly devastated at the loss of a loving and loveable daughter and sister, dedicated to her job".

They said: "She will be greatly missed by her family, friends and colleagues."

Worried relatives called police to the smart, newly-built housing estate where Miss Ward had lived for less than a year, concerned they had not seen or heard from her for some time.

The last sighting of the couple was in the early hours of New Year's Day.

Ms Ward, who was based at Welford Road police station in the centre of Leicester, was six months away from graduating to full police officer status.

She had not worked since before Christmas and was due back on the Leicester city beat next week. It is believed the popular rookie policewoman was stabbed to death at home by Marlow, who then killed himself.

Police said Marlow, from the West Midlands area, was thought to have been staying with the officer at the time of the incident.

Miss Ward worked in the force's central area and was a probationary officer with 18 months' service.

Paying tribute to her, Chief Constable Matt Baggott said: "Although she was young in service - she joined the Constabulary only 18 months ago - Melissa had enjoyed a successful career and was greatly respected by her colleagues.

"She had many friends in the force and she will be sadly missed by all that knew her as well as the wider police family.

"Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues. Everything possible is being, and will continue to be, done to ensure they receive the support they need at this difficult and distressing time."

Central Area Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Garnham added: "Her loss is greatly felt amongst all who knew her personally and by colleagues across the Central Area.

"She had been working on the Central Area for the majority of her 18 months' service and had made many friends whilst here."