THE operators of the farm where a Polish mother-of-one was strangled by her brother have paid tribute to the dairy worker.

Police have today officially confirmed that the body found at New Moor Farm, at Walworth Gate, near Darlington, was that of 27-year-old Danuta Domagalska.

They believe she was strangled by her brother Piotr Lawniczak after the pair argued about a financial issue.

Mr Lawniczak was found hanged in woodland several days after he disappeared.

At a press conference this morning, Sue Archer, who runs the farm with husband John, said: “Danuta was a hardworking a caring person. She was always smiling and cheerful and despite the language barrier she had a sparkle.

“She loved her job and worked tirelessly, never having a day off sick, even through the coldest December on record last year.

“We believe (her husband) Marcin and Danuta were a strong couple who relied on each other and we hope that now Marcin has been re-united with his son Kuba in Poland he will begin to rebuild his life.

“Our shock, disgust and disappointment at Piotr’s actions conflict with the memories of the man we know.

“We have always been proud of our Polish connection through the Kubiak family and hope we will be able to offer Ewelina and their son Wiktor our support through this horrendous time.”

Police had been searching for Mrs Domagalska since August 14, when Mrs Archer confronted Mr Lawniczak and became suspicious about his explanation for her absence - she had last been seen eight days previously. Mr Lawniczak, 31, went missing before police arrived.

Last Wednesday, police found Mr Lawniczak's body hanged from a tree in a field opposite the farm and the cottage where he, his sister and her husband lived.

Mrs Domagalska was found on Saturday in a shallow grave behind the main farm buildings.

For the full story, see tomorrow’s The Northern Echo.