The sister of a woman has paid tribute to their family's "sparkling ray of sunshine" after a body was found in Lancashire.

Rachel Jackson, originally from Blackpool but based in Greater Manchester, went missing after she was visiting friends in Preston on Friday, March 31.

Police found a body in Avenham Park, Preston yesterday (April 1), and while it has not yet been formally identified, it is believed to be Rachel.

Her sister, Sarah Jackson has launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding appeal to raise money for a funeral for Rachel.

In the family’s tribute, Sarah said: “Yesterday, the unthinkable happened and after an awful day of searching, the news came in that my precious, beautiful sister had been found dead.

“I never thought I'd have to do this but we need to raise funds to give her the most beautiful, colourful, Rachel-esque send off ever.

“She was a sparkling ray of sunshine who brought unconditional love, joy and beauty to the lives of every single person she encountered. I've never met anyone who loved so purely and deeply, never met anyone with the compassion and empathy she had.

“She was one in a million and our family are in pieces at having lost the beautiful rainbow in our sky. Our lives will never be the same and the pain is so deep and raw, but your donations will ease the financial struggles for the funeral and memorial at least.

“I know Rachel's pure love, zaniness and beauty touched all your lives: please donate whatever you can in memory of this precious, one of a kind soul.”

You can donate here.