THE FAMILY of Ann Pewter, who died when a car in which she was a passenger went into the water from the slipway at the King Harry Ferry, have paid tribute to the woman who loved the great outdoors.

Mrs Pewter from Tavistock, aged 74, died in the tragedy on March 20 along with her two dogs and the family said this week they are still coming to terms with her loss.

With her husband, Mrs Pewter retired to the Westcountry and had lived in Tavistock for a number of years. She was a keen photographer and was passionately interested in wildlife, animal welfare, gardens and the great outdoors generally.

She had holidayed in Cornwall frequently and loved photographing its beautiful gardens and spectacular coast.

'Her loss, and that of her lovely dogs, has created an enormous hole in our lives that cannot be filled,' they said.

'We would like to thank everyone involved in the tragedy, who went above the call of duty in their attempts to save Ann and her dogs.

'We have no words to express our thanks to the diver for his selfless efforts and disregard of his own personal safety in attempting to recover the car.'

'We would also like to thank many friends, neighbours and family whose exceptional kindness and support has been invaluable as we come to terms with our loss.'