THE family of a West Wickham teenager found dead in Oxted last week has paid tribute to a "loving and gentle" girl.

Elizabeth Thomas, 17, who went to Oxted County School, was found stabbed to death at a property in Amy Road on Friday January 24.

In a moving statement, her loved ones said their lives have been destroyed and added how proud they are of the teenager’s hard work at school.

They said: "Elizabeth was a kind, caring, loving and gentle girl and her death has left our lives broken beyond re pair, we have lost our Sunday child.

"Throughout her GCSEs Elizabeth studied hard and did very well, she was now working towards her A Levels and we were all extremely proud of what she had achieved.

"Following Elizabeth's death we have been truly overwhelmed by the messages and support we have received from everyone who knew her.

"We would like to say a special thank you to Elizabeth's friends and the friends of her younger sister for all they have done over recent days. They have shown a great sense of maturity and respect in such tragic circumstances."

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder on Sunday and has since been sectioned under the Mental Health Act. He remains on police bail.

Earlier today it was reported he is known as Steven Miles - it’s also been alleged Elizabeth was in a relationship with the suspect and had wanted to break up.

Surrey Police are continuing to investigate the death.