The mum of a popular Canvey woman who was brutally beaten to death has thanked islanders for their support after her death.

Kelly Pearce, 36, of North Avenue, Canvey, died from a blow to the head and a stab wound to her neck after an attack at a flat in Fairlop Avenue.

She was pronounced dead at Royal London Hospital less than three hours after she was found in the flat on Thursday, November 19.

 Kelly’s mum Lynne Wallings, who lives on Canvey, said she has been incredibly touched by the support she has received from friends, family and total strangers since her daughter’s death.

A fundraising appeal, set up by friends to help fund Kelly’s funeral and to support her family, has raised more than £2,800.

Ms Wallings said: “Our hearts are shattered and we are devastated that Kelly has been taken in this tragic way.

“We are absolutely in bits but we have had absolutely excellent support from friends and family and people I don’t even know have been to see me.

“The community on Canvey have been absolutely outstanding.

“All the money that has been raised is going to her son Josh. It has been very hard for him but he is bearing up.”

Friends and family have been invited to Kelly’s funeral on Monday, February 22, which will take place at the Pitsea Crematorium at 1.20pm.

Flowers should be sent to Stibbards funeral directors and any donations will be given to Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Ms Wallings said: “Kelly will finally be laid to rest. The funeral will be a celebration of her life.”

Mum-of-one Kelly, who grew up on Canvey, was a former pupil at the island’s Furtherwick Park School.

To donate, visit gofundme.com/kellypearce.

- Anthony Ayres, 48, of Fairlop Avenue, Canvey, has been charged with Kelly’s murder and has been remanded in custody while he awaits trial.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday for a plea and case management hearding.

The trial has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 3.