The family of a woman allegedly murdered in a Canterbury flat say they have been left devastated by her death.

Catherine Granger, 50, was discovered with fatal stab wounds after police were called to the property in Long Acre Close last Tuesday.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

David Creed, who lives at the flat, was arrested and later charged with her murder.

The tragedy stunned neighbours in the city cul-de-sac, and has left Ms Granger's family in shock.

Her mother, Christine Ash, told KentOnline: "We are all totally devastated.

"Catherine was much-loved. I am only grateful that I managed to chat to her, albeit virtually, on Christmas Day,"

Ms Granger - who was one of four sisters - is understood to have lived at the flat with Creed.

Neighbours say she would often be seen with a pet duck, which was found by police in a separate room at the property.

Conservationist Jo Kidd met Ms Granger through the MyStreets Canterbury project, which are tours of the city led by homeless or previously homeless people.

"Catherine was very knowledgeable about history and she had a lot of information that she shared with people on her tours," Mrs Kidd said.

"She was very enthusiastic and bright. She was a caring person.

"Catherine also rescued a duck after it had been abandoned."

Creed, 52, is due to face a murder trial this summer.

Currently on remand in Elmley Prison on the Isle of Sheppey, he appeared via videolink at Maidstone Crown Court yesterday.

He spoke only to confirm his name, and did not enter a plea to the charge.

His lawyer, Max Reeves, told Judge David Griffith-Jones QC there would be no application for bail, so Creed will remain in custody until his next court hearing in March, when he is expected to enter a plea.

An inquest into Ms Granger's death is due to be held tomorrow (Wednesday).

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury

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