Family tribute to 'smiley, generous' Louise Smith, 16

Louise Smith died at the age of sixteen in Hampshire

The family of Hampshire teenager Louise Smith have paid tribute to her.

The sixteen year old's body was found in woodland at Havant Thicket almost two weeks after she disappeared from the Leigh Park area.

She was last seen in Havant at about midday on the seventy-fifth anniversary of VE Day, the 8th May 2020. She was found on 21st May.

In a statement released through Hampshire Police, Louise Smith's family paid tribute to her:

Detectives have appealed for anyone who may have information to come forward.

Shane Mays, 29, of Somborne Drive in Havant, has been charged with the murder of Louise Smith. He appeared at Winchester Crown Court via video-link, and has been remanded in custody to reappear before Winchester Crown Court on 15th July.

Hampshire Police said that a 29-year-old woman, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in connection with the investigation, has been released on bail.