Rui Li's daughter has paid tribute to a “perfect mother”.

Lu Yao, now 18, said: "My mum was a wonderful person, a great teacher and the perfect mother to me.

"I have and will always love and respect her unconditionally. She will always be in my heart and she is missed every day.

"She worked hard all her life to provide for me, ensuring that I had the best possible upbringing.

"I just wish that I had the opportunity to repay her love as well as let her know how much I appreciate everything she has done for me.

"I hope that she can rest in peace now those who are responsible will pay the consequences.

"I want to thank the police and the prosecution team for all their hard work.

"I would also like to extend my thanks to everyone who showed sympathy and gave their condolences and support during this difficult time."

During the trial, a victim impact statement written by Miss Yao was read aloud.

In it, the teenager said: "My mother travelled to the UK in 2004 from China to provide a better way of life for us.

"She was a qualified nurse in China. I came in 2005 to be with my mum, initially my father came with me to the UK.

"He returned to China shortly after and they divorced.

"I was always very close to my mum, and our good mother/daughter relationship continued.

"Shortly after I arrived I was aware mum was in a relationship with Pierre Legris.

"It all changed when I went to secondary school, she was still close, still supporting, but now less, she spent more and more time with Pierre.

"Now I am at university studying medicine with a view to becoming a doctor one day.

"I hope mum would be proud of me. I wish she were here to see how well I'm doing.

"One day, like my grandfather, I will be a doctor."

Rui Li’s colleagues also paid tribute to her.

“Rui was very conscientious, reliable and had a great attitude to her work.

“She was well respected by colleagues and patients alike, and is hugely missed as a valuable part of the ‘family’ on the ward. She will hold a place in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have worked alongside her.”

Debbie Fleming, chief executive of Poole Hospital said: “Rui was a highly valued member of staff, much loved by both patients and her colleagues.

“We were shocked and saddened by the circumstances of Rui’s death, and she continues to be sorely missed by those within the hospital that had the privilege of working with her.”