A memorial service has been held by workmates of Laindon murder victim Anita Gordon.

Mrs Gordon, 57, of Rowenhall, was beaten about the head with a blunt weapon which has still not been found. Her body was discovered by her husband at 2.30am last Friday.

Sharon Fletcher, deputy manager of Oaklands residential home, Laindon, said staff and residents held an emotional ceremony to celebrate Mrs Gordon's life.

Mrs Gordon, a qualified nurse, started work at the care home, in Forest Glade, two months before she died.

Sharon said: "I know she was only here for a short time but she was a lovely person and seemed to be at home here, she was brilliant and was very well liked. We all got on with her very well."

Published Friday, March 22, 2002