THE family of a mother-of-five who was stabbed to death in a New Forest field have spoken of their "devastation" at the death of a "remarkable person".

Penelope Davis, known as Pennie, had been tending to her two horses in the field near Beaulieu, Hampshire, at about 4.40pm on Tuesday when she was killed.

The 47-year-old super­market worker from Blackfield was found by her husband, Pete, who is said to be "distraught" at her death.

A statement released by the family through police said: "We are devastated by the death of our beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend.

"Pennie was a remarkable person. She was a devoted mother of five children who worked hard to ensure that they had everything they needed. She cared for and supported them in everything they did.

"In May she married her love, Pete, at a joyful occasion."

Detective Superintendent Paul Barton, of Hampshire police, said: "We want to speak to anyone who was in the area of the paddock by Leygreen Farm on Tuesday afternoon between 2pm and 5pm.We believe there will have been tourists in this area at the time as well as commuters, walkers, and people out fishing in the adjacent river."