Family pays tribute to Amie Gray

The family of a woman stabbed to death on a Bournemouth beach have said her “giggle and big smile will be hard to miss”.

Amie Gray, a 34-year-old personal trainer, was one of two women stabbed on Durley Chine beach at around 11.45pm BST on 24 May.

She died on the spot, while a 38-year-old woman remains in hospital.

A 20-year-old man from Croydon, London, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

Mrs Gray’s mother Sharon Macklin said: “As a family we are devastated to have lost one of the most amazing, funny, kind and energetic souls.”

Her wife Sian Gray said: “Her giggle and big smile will be hard to miss. A larger than life character.

“I will miss you so much my love. To the moon and back, forever and ever.”

A cordon set up along the boardwalk has now been lifted, but the search continues.

On Tuesday morning, search teams could be seen descending the cliff with ropes, toppling the wreckage.

Mrs Macklin said: “When Amie walked into a room she burst into laughter and her presence could not be ignored.

“She was beautiful inside and out and there are no words to express how empty our lives will be without her.

“We will miss her so much and our hearts are forever broken.”

Mrs Gray said: “Words cannot describe the pain we feel. Amie was the most loving wife and mother.”

Residents spoke of their shock at the stabbings, with some saying they were “scared” while others were reassured by the police response.

On Sunday, police issued CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in a bid to get witnesses to come forward.

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2240.