The family of a woman stabbed to death in Bournemouth last weekend have released a full moving statement in tribute to her.

As police confirmed 20-year-old Ryan Justin Thornton had been charged with murder following the death of Stela Marisabel Domador-Kuzma, her family said: "Stela you have always been the sunshine of our family, a unique person with strong will that never lost sight of what was important in life: family, friends, joy and achievements.

"You touched the heart of your friends and colleagues with your fun, jovial personality and your spirit of 'joie de vivre'. Anybody who knew you admired your sense of humour, work ethic and BIG heart!

"Always positive, enthusiastic and adventurous, you weren't too sure what life would throw at you next but you had the courage to take the next steps and move on to better things.

"Stela you made the difficult decision of leaving your home country and family behind in the hope of finding a new future in a place where peace and justice existed.

"A place where you felt safe to walk alone at night, you made Bournemouth your new home despite the cold weather as you fell in love with its beautiful landscape and beach. You soldiered on through the British summer with a jacket and scarf, jokes and a big smile on your face.

"Every year your dream was to get our big family spread around the world together and celebrate Christmas as we used to do at Baba's house when we were kids.

"These words are not to say goodbye but to let you know that you are more alive than ever in our hearts and minds. You live around us as if nothing had happened, in our memories and our plans that we will put on hold until we meet again.

"Thank you for all the amazing memories and moments that will forever be with us.

"Lord give eternal rest and shine for eternal light. We love you forever."