TRIBUTES have been paid to 'shining star' Sharon Perrett as a man was yesterday charged with murdering the 37-year-old.

Police were called to Park Gardens in Somerford, Christchurch, in the early hours of Sunday morning following reports that Ms Perrett had sustained serious injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

An initial post-mortem examination was carried out yesterday, which indicated the cause of death as blunt force trauma.

A number of bouquets from friends and neighbours have been left outside the flat where Ms Perrett died. The property remains cordoned off and under police guard while forensics officers investigate.

One tribute left at the scene, from Ms Perrett's friend Kim, said: “Thank you for always making me smile and laugh out loud. I will always be thinking of you. Gone too soon. Fly high lovely lady.”

Another simply stated: “I have no words apart from I love you and this is no goodbye, but see you again one day."

Meanwhile, a poignant tribute signed Sophie and Adam read: “Cannot believe I will never see your beaming smile again. The world today has lost a shining star.

“You will be missed by so many. You could brighten up the dullest day with your kindness and humour.

"We love you and miss you Sharon, until we meet again.”

Daniel Raymond O’Malley-Keyes, 38 and of Christchurch, has been charged with murder. He is due to appear before Poole Magistrates' Court today.

Detective Inspector Rich Dixey said: “We have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised a charge of murder.

“Family liaison officers have updated Sharon’s family with this development and continue to support them."

Investigators believe Ms Perrett may have been out drinking in Christchurch on the evening before she died. Anyone who saw a woman in her 30s outside Lloyds Bank in Southbourne Grove between 8pm and 10pm on Saturday evening is asked to call Dorset Police on 101, quoting incident number 26:57.