The heartbroken family of a “caring and generous” woman who was always “bright and bubbly” has paid a moving tribute to her after she died.

Nicola Wilson, 26, of Greengarth, Great Clifton, near Workington, was found dead in the early hours of Tuesday morning in the area of Lowca Lane, Seaton.

She leaves mum Julie, dad Ian and sister Carly, 30.

Miss Wilson, a former pupil at Stainburn School, is remembered by her family as the life and soul of the party.

Julie said: “She was just beautiful inside and out, always bright and bubbly. She was a generous and caring young woman.”

Miss Wilson, known as Nic, loved doing charity work for Mind and had planned to do a sponsored head shave to raise cash for the organisation after Christmas.

Julie said the family had many fond memories of holidays in Great Yarmouth.

“She was always the centre of our family, she loved it when we were all together,” said Julie. “She had lots of time for people, if any of her friends had a problem, Nic was always there for them.”

Miss Wilson’s funeral is due to take place on Friday, November 2 at 10.30am at the crematorium in Distington.

The family have asked for mourners to wear bright colours as a tribute to Miss Wilson’s bubbly personality.

Miss Wilson, who would have turned 27 on Wednesday, had a passion for rugby and used to play for the Workington Zebras Finches.

The team issued a statement on its Facebook page: “We write this with heavy and broken hearts. Words can’t describe how we are all feeling, our thoughts go out to your family. You were part of our family, our rugby family, forever you will stay in our hearts. Sleep tight Nicola Wilson. Meet us on the pitch. All the love in the world, The Finches.”

Miss Wilson’s friends also took to Facebook to express their shock and sadness at her death.

Codie Rogan posted: “I have no words, was only talking to you a few days ago – what a lovely friend and lovely woman with a good heart, always stood by me when I was down! I am absolutely devastated – heaven has gained another angel.”

Katy Nicholson said: “Can’t actually believe it, Nicola Wilson you were one of the kindest, sweetest and most selfless people I’ve ever met. You were infectiously happy to be around and put a smile on my face every time I saw you. One of the most beautiful people inside and out, sleep tight beautiful.”

Miss Wilson worked at The Entertainer toy shop in Workington, which was closed on Tuesday as a mark of respect.

A spokesman for the company said: “We are deeply saddened to receive such tragic news. Nicola has been a valued member of our team for almost two years, and we shall miss her.

“Our store was closed on Tuesday as a mark of respect for Nicola and her family, and also to allow her colleagues to receive support and counselling. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nicola’s family at this difficult time.”

A multi-agency operation took place on Monday night after Miss Wilson was reported missing.

A police helicopter and teams from Maryport and Whitehaven Coastguard rescue teams as well as Maryport Inshore Rescue took part in the search.

A spokesman for Cumbria police said Miss Wilson’s death was not believed to be suspicious and the coroner has been informed.