IPSWICH: The mother of a woman whose body was found in the River Orwell today paid tribute to her.

Sandra Warne, 46, of Barrack Lane, Ipswich, was discovered floating face down in the water near Stoke Bridge on March 30.

In a heartfelt tribute, Ms Warne’s mother, Marjorie Warne, 83, said she missed her daughter “terribly”.

She also revealed she has penned an emotional letter thanking Steven Crofts, the man who attempted to save the life of Ms Warne after he spotted her in the water and waded in to try and rescue her.

Mrs Warne said: “Sandra was a lovely, bright cheerful person who was always willing to help everyone.

“She would come and visit me at home every Thursday. I miss her terribly right now.

“I would like to thank everyone who was there and tried to rescue her, especially the emergency services.

“I am also extremely thankful to Steven Crofts and have a written a letter to him personally expressing my gratitude.”

The Star reported how Mr Crofts was walking home from town when he spotted Ms Warne in the river between Princes Street Bridge and Stoke Park Bridge.

Having seen her legs move, the 33-year-old father-of-three jumped into the river to help her.

However, while he was knee deep in the river and wading towards the body, police advised him not to go any further because he was endangering his own life.

Emergency services were called to the scene after a member of the public initially reported seeing a body in the river.

Paramedics tried to resuscitate her, however she was declared dead at the scene.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Detective Sergeant Neil Rumsey at Ipswich CID on 10473 613500 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.