The father of a 28-year-old woman who was found dead on the M1 motorway earlier this month, has paid an emotional tribute to his daughter.

Police received a call from a motorist travelling along the M1 southbound carriageway at junction 22 for Coalville, to report a body in the road.

Officers from Leicestershire Police, alongside colleagues from East Midlands Ambulance Service, attended the scene, on January 18, and confirmed the body was that of a deceased woman.

In a statement released today (Monday), Stephanie Fletcher-Smith's father said: "Our hearts are broken with the passing of our beautiful girl; she was the sweetest person we knew.

Stephanie Fletcher-Smith. Photo: Leicestershire Police

"She gave so much love, kindness and understanding to others, even when she was struggling to find the light herself. We hope she has now found the peace and happiness she deserved."

Her death is not being treated as suspicious and officers are continuing to carry out enquiries on behalf of the HM Coroner.

As part of those enquiries, Leicestershire Police are continuing to ask for any motorist with dashcam footage who were travelling past junction 22 of the M1 around 5am on Thursday 18 January.

Anyone with footage or useful information is asked to repot online HERE - quoting reference 24*35198. Alternatively ring 101.