THE family of a Chester woman stabbed to death at her home have paid a touching tribute to their “wonderful, thoughtful and caring mum”.

Paul Knowles, 50, is believed to have attacked his wife Gillian, 51, before taping a note to the front door of their home on Caughall Road, Upton, on Wednesday, May 19.

The note read ‘please call police’, and Mr Knowles is believed to have later hanged himself.

Police were called to the house at around midday after concerns were raised by neighbour Arnold Johnson, 78, who had spotted the note.

Post-mortems carried out on Friday revealed former area manager Gillian died of stab wounds and asphyxiation, while HGV driver Paul Knowles died from hanging.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police confirmed they were not looking for anyone else in relation to their deaths.

The couple, who had been married for about 15 years, did not have any children of their own.

Gillian’s two children, Daniel, 26, a quantity surveyor, and Phillippa, 20, from a previous marriage said in a statement: “Gillian was a wonderful, thoughtful and caring mum who would always do anything for her children, family and friends.

“It is so unfair that she has left us in this way with so much in life to look forward to with her son Daniel’s graduation and daughter Phillippa’s wedding.

“She was so proud of what her children had achieved and was a strong influence on their lives and they will continue to make her proud.

“She had a brilliant smile, laugh and love that will be sorely missed. She will be forever remembered, respected and loved.”

Police also contacted Paul Knowles daughter Lucy, who had not been in contact with her father for some time.

She said: “I have recently reconnected with my dad and I am very shocked and upset by all that has happened. My thoughts and prayers are with Philly and Dan.”