Tributes paid to 86 year old church warden as murder investigation continues
The family statement says: "Bez was a caring person who would help anyone in need."
Last updated 31st Mar 2023
Tributes have been paid to an 86 year old caring’ and ‘loved’ grandmother, as police in Somerset continue a murder investigation.
A man in his man in his 30s was arrested and later sectioned. Police have confirmed the person arrested had been missing from a mental health unit - with the force automatically referring itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct as investigations continue.
On social media, Somerset Council leader Bill Revans and fellow councillor Alan Bradford say 'Bez' Purdy was a wonderful character, dedicated to her family and to her role as church warden."
She died at her home in Broomfield, near Bridgwater, on Monday and was found by emergency services responding to reports of a burglary in progress.
In a tribute to Beryl, known as Bez, the family said: “As a family, we are devastated to have lost a dearly loved wife, mother and granny.
“Bez was a caring person who would help anyone in need and was very much part of the village, being a church warden for 20 years.
“We will miss her very much and we are all struggling to understand why this happened to such a lovely person.”
A police spokesperson added: "All our thoughts continue to be with Beryl’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
"The family continues to be supported by specially trained family liaison officers."