Lorraine Head was found with a head injury at the cottage in Rogate
The family of a Sussex woman who was found dead at the bottom of a flight of stairs in suspicious circumstances have spoken of their loss.
Lorraine Head, 46, known to friends as George, was found at 2130 BST on Friday with a head injury at the cottage where she lived in Kings Head Mews, Rogate.
In a statement issued through Sussex Police, her brother, Jonathan said the family was "deeply shocked".
"She was loved by many and was a popular member of the community."
Mr Head added: "George was outgoing, funny and showed real guts and determination to live an independent life.
"She will be dearly missed by her friends and family."
A post-mortem examination showed Ms Head died from a head injury and her death is being treated as suspicious.
Officers said there were no other suspicious injuries to her body and no weapon is thought to have been involved.
A force spokesman said there were no signs of a break-in at the cottage and nothing had been stolen.
A 57-year-old local man arrested on suspicion of murder had been bailed until 7 July.
- Published6 June 2010
