A "wonderful and caring" woman was tragically found dead in woods near Canterbury following a police search, an inquest has been told today.

The heartbreaking discovery was made last Monday after fears had been raised for the welfare of 40-year-old Kirsty Hawkins, who had been reported missing by her father the previous day.

An inquest into her death opened in Maidstone this morning and was told her body was sadly found at about 7am in woodland off Bigbury Road in Chartham Hatch.

Emergency crews were called to the area after her blue Toyota Hilux was seen abandoned in Tonford Lane.

Ms Hawkins, who lived in Chartham, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her father had earlier posted a desperate appeal on Facebook for information on her whereabouts, sparking an outpouring of concern for her welfare.

Following the news of her death, many wrote to express their deep sadness and love for Ms Hawkins.

One wrote: "I was a friend of Kirsty and want to offer my deepest condolences to the family.

"She truly was a wonderful, caring lady who I was lucky to call a friend. I will miss her so much, as will so many people."

Another posted: "I only met Kirsty in the last year but what a lovely person she was. She radiated kindness."

Another tribute read: "Kirsty will continue to live on in our hearts and memories. Her beautiful soul is with nan and gramp now."

Office manager Ms Hawkins was a dog lover and keen horsewoman in her spare time.

Her death has shocked and saddened the local equestrian community, within which she had many friends.

The inquest was told her death is not being treated as suspicious.

It was adjourned until June 13.