THE family of a dedicated children's nurse have spoken of their grief after the discovery of her body in the River Avon.

Patricia Curry, aged 68 from Mount Pleasant, Pershore, had disappeared from her home over two weeks ago.

She had recently moved back to the area with John, her husband of 30 years.

They had previously lived at Spindrift, Farm Street, Fladbury with their two sons, Vincent, aged 29 and John, aged 27, before moving to Worcester.

The body of Mrs Curry, who retired from nursing around two years ago, was spotted near The Moorings in Pershore by the owner of a narrowboat at around 4.20pm on Monday.

At the opening of her inquest in Stourport the following day, coroner Victor Round said the mother- of-two was identified by an engraving on her wedding ring.

Mrs Curry, who was born and bred in Glasgow, completed her nursing training in the city - a profession she remained dedicated to throughout her life.

Specialising in paediatric care, her career led to a spell nursing sick children in New York.

She went on to spend 20 years working on the Bates medical ward at the Royal Infirmary, Worcester.

Her son, Vincent Curry said: "My mother was a fantastic person and will be missed by everyone who knew her.

"She was a wonderful nurse and much admired and respected by her colleagues and the patients she cared for.

"Her loss has come as a great shock to us and we now want time as a family to be able to grieve."

Mrs Curry's funeral service will be held at 1pm next Wednesday at Pershore's Holy Redeemer Church.

There will be family flowers only but any donations to Acorns Children's Hospice can be made through the funeral directors E Hill & Son on 01386 552141.