Neighbours of a woman who was allegedly murdered have paid tribute to her as someone who would “drop everything if you needed her”.

Deborah Gumbrell, 59, died after an incident in Northbourne Close in Shoreham on Monday and families living in the cul de sac have told of their shock at what happened.

One resident, Rita Perry, said: “She was a very nice, very kind lady and she always stopped to talk to you.

“One of my dogs used to keep escaping and as soon as you asked her, she would help you search for them.

“She would just drop what she was doing if you needed her.”

Friends, family and residents have paid tribute to Deborah, known as Debbie, and flowers have been left on the doorstep of her home. Alongside the bouquets was a Liverpool football scarf - she was an avid supporter of the team.

The Argus: Flowers have been left outside the house in Northbourne CloseFlowers have been left outside the house in Northbourne Close (Image: NQ Staff)

One resident told of his grief, saying: “We are devastated, we just can’t believe it.”

Another person living in Northbourne Close, who asked not to be named, said: “She was a lovely lady and they were a lovely family.

“I haven’t spoken to anyone about it but the consensus seems to be total shock.

“Everyone in the road would smile at each other and say good morning and stop and chat, so we’re totally shocked.”

Police responded to the incident on Monday after reports that a woman had been “seriously assaulted”.

Forensic teams remained at the property for several days.

The Argus: Deborah Gumbrell, 59, who was named as the victim of an alleged murderDeborah Gumbrell, 59, who was named as the victim of an alleged murder (Image: Sussex Police)

James Gumbrell, 64, has been arrested and charged with murder in relation to the incident. He appeared at Crawley Magistrates' Court on Wednesday and is set to appear at Lewes Crown Court this morning.