Mother and daughter found dead at house in Gloucester

Tributes have been paid to a mother and daughter found dead at a house in Gloucester who are now the focus of a double murder investigation.

They were named locally as Laura Mortimer, 31, and her 11-year-old daughter Ella Dalby, who were both pronounced dead at the scene. Police were called to the property on the outskirts of the city early on bank holiday Monday, responding to reports that two people had been seriously injured.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

It is understood Mortimer, who had two other children, ran a business, Sweet Beginnings, offering bespoke bridal gowns and wedding planning services.

A wedding photographer based in Gloucestershire, who did not wished to be named, said: “Laura was a lovely lady with a kind word for everyone. An inspiration to many people not only personally but in the wedding industry too.

“She worked so hard to get where she did and was extremely well respected throughout Gloucestershire and beyond. I know every Sweet Beginnings bride and wedding supplier is thinking of her and her family.”

Tributes have been paid on Facebook, with one person writing: “Been in so much shock all day and still have no words, I’m absolutely heart broken and keep thinking someone is going to say they got it wrong.

“Fly high Laura and keep Ella safe with you. It’s just unthinkable. Your poor little girls.”

A friend wrote: “RIP Laura & your daughter Ella. Absolutely tragic. Really feel for your other two little princesses now to be left without their mummy & big sister. Just awful news.”

Another said: “Laura and I were good friends and I’m in extreme shock. I tell you what I cannot, cannot, cannot believe this. Gutted does not even come close and that beautiful daughter Ella she was Laura’s rock.”