TRIBUTES have been paid to a woman described as a 'shining light' with a 'carefree spirit'.

Tammi Straw, 47, died suddenly but peacefully at her Weymouth home, her family said.

She was well known in Weymouth and Portland and her family and friends are coming to terms with her sudden passing.

Tammi worked for Weyline Taxis and drivers have been displaying colourful ribbons in their vehicles as a way of paying tribute.

Her family say they have been overwhelmed with messages of support from the community. A funeral date has yet to be announced.

Tammi grew up on Portland with her mother, the late Shirley Straw, her father Tony Straw and her older siblings Janine and Andrew.

She went to Underhill Junior School and Royal Manor School on the island before becoming an apprentice at the Senior Rates Mess at HMS Osprey, the former Royal Naval air station.

Whilst there she entered many cooking competitions and even winning first prize for her 'amazing' tarte Tatin.

Over the last few years Tammi had a number of jobs, which including pursuing her dream of setting up her own business, a 'shabby chic' furniture restoration venture she called Boho Forge. Her family said she was very creative and enjoyed restoring old furniture.

She enjoyed her job at Weyline Taxis, which included doing airport trips, as well as transporting children to schools and taking vulnerable adults to workshops and day centres.

Tammi was said to have a 'lovely rapport' with customers and was much-loved.

She enjoyed going to festivals, particularly Glastonbury, and was well known on social media. She posted 'Tammi about Town' weather clips using a plastic hand she had made which people loved, and her advice about curly hair was also popular.

Her family said: "Tammi was a powerhouse of a woman; she took no prisoners that’s for sure. She was always so thoughtful with a carefree spirit who did things her way, she lived her life the way she wanted to. She was beautiful, extrovert, creative and most of all she was a shining light in everybody’s lives, adored by everyone for her soul, smile and humour.

"Tammi would help anyone who needed it, she adored her family and they adored her."

The family added: "Tammi was well known in Weymouth and Portland and we have received many, many kind and thoughtful messages and would like to thank everyone who took the time to send them, it means so much to us all.

"Tammi was taken away from us too soon but lived a fulfilling life. We are going to miss her bright personality along with her bright coloured hair.

"Finally, thank you to Weyline Taxis for the lovely gesture of having colourful ribbons on their cabs in memory of Tammi."