TRIBUTES have been paid to Dawn Williams by former work colleagues.

Dawn, a performance analyst at Thames Water's Swindon office, was found dead at her Rodbourne home at 7.15pm on Thursday.

The 44-year-old, of Fosse Close, has been remembered as a well-liked colleague by those leaving messages in her memory online at the Advertiser's website.

She had worked for the water operator for 18 years, and her former workmates paint a picture of a popular team member.

The first tribute came from Pauline, of Swindon, who wrote: "Many people knew Dawn and have been very shocked by the sad news.

"I have worked at Thames Water for four years and have been very saddened by this. I hope Dawn is now at peace. She will be remembered fondly."

Sara, from Swindon, asked: "Dawn what will I do without you? You will leave a huge void with me at work."

A contributor who logged into the website as Ellis, from Swindon, joined the tributes on Saturday, and wrote: "Have known Dawn since I started at Thames Water back in 1989. Am deeply shocked and saddened. Dawn knew many people and will be greatly missed by all.

"My sincere sympathy to all of Dawn's family, my thoughts are with you. Angie xx"

Sam in Swindon is another long-term friend and colleague of Dawn's, and wrote: "My dear friend Dawn. She was warm, loving, supportive and a beautiful friend.

"I will miss her more than I can put down in words. My thoughts are with her family at this time."

A message signed from Karen and Robbie said: "I have known Dawn as a friend and work colleague for 17 years. Her death is a great loss to all who know her. I remember our nights out at Route 66 the good old days. Dawn, teddy will be waiting for you. God bless you and your mum and dad in this tragic time."

And former workmate, Vanessa Wilson, who now lives in Devon, wrote: "I have known Dawn since 1989 while working in Thames Water and feel very sad at the terrible news of her death.

"Dawn was a very caring and patient person who always had time for others, she had a quick wit and wicked sense of humour. Her love of her dogs was well known and I hope she is with some of them now.

"My sympathies go to her mum and dad at this sad time and i hope they get some comfort in knowing that she was much loved by her friends and work colleagues. Dawn, be at peace."

Speaking on Friday, Thames Water's customer service director Mike Tempest, said: "We are all extremely shocked and saddened at the news of Dawn's death and we extend our deepest sympathy to her family.

"Dawn was a very well-liked and respected member of our team who had given us many years of loyal service. She has left many friends at Thames Water who will miss her badly."

Dawn's partner, 42-year-old Andrew Veal, known to friends and neighbours as Bruce, has been arrested by police in connection with the incident and is still in custody at Gablecross police station.