EAST Lancashire's police community was today beginning to come to terms with the death of a "bright and bubbly" colleague.

The body of PC Clare Mace, 23, was found at her home in Sefton Close, Clayton-le-Moors on Christmas Eve, along with the body of her husband Richard, 26.

Police believe Richard had stabbed her to death before slashing his wrists and committing suicide.

The couple had met when they were both in the Army and married in October 2000, but had separated a week ago.

Clare, who grew up in Burnley and went to Towneley High School, joined the police force in December 2001 and had been based at Nelson since completing her initial training.

She had recently completed her probationary period and was working as one of a team of officers responding to calls. Police said her family had told them she was enjoying her work.

Inspector Paul Robinson, geographic inspector for Nelson, had been Clare's inspector since she began working in the town in early 2002.

He said today: "She was a very bright and bubbly individual and very enthusiastic. Being a very outgoing sort of individual, she had found it very easy to make friendships. She was learning her job very well and threw herself into everything that came her way.

"She was very highly regarded by both her immediate colleagues and others here at Nelson and in Colne.

"I can say confidently that she would have continued to be a very keen and able officer, providing the local community with the best policing in her capabilities. She had the potential for a bright future.

"All of us here at Nelson and many within the wider division are shocked and saddened by the tragedy.

"Our thoughts are with the two families involved. We will be doing our best to support them in any desires they may have.

"Many of our lasting thoughts of Clare will be of her smile and her bright disposition. She will be sorely missed."