This is the first picture of Colchester nurse, Ella Chimweta, who was suffocated in her flat.

The 32-year-old has not been seen since she finished a shift on the afternoon of July 9.

Murder investigators are yet to formally identify the body - found at a ground floor flat in High Woods, Colchester - but police believe it is Ms Chimweta.

A hospital spokesman said Ms Chimweta joined Colchester General Hospital after working as a nurse in London.

She worked on the same ward throughout her time and was well liked.

It is thought she had lived in High Woods since moving to Colchester last May.

Barbara Woodrow, deputy director of nursing at Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, spoke of her shock. She said: "She was a good nurse and a very private person.

"Her colleagues were shocked and saddened, and the Trust extends its condolences to her family and friends."

Ms Chimweta was due to see a friend after 2.30pm and detectives are trying to find if she arrived.

Daniel Tambengwa, who lived with her in Weetmans Drive, has not been since she disappeared.

Police are keen to track him down, but fear he may have left the country. They are checking with bed and breakfasts and hotels in the South-East to see if he has been seen.

Mr Tambenwenga is black, stocky, and aged about 30. He drives a silver-blue Ford Mondeo car, R738 VOC.

The murder probe, now in day two, could also be boosted by information from a 12-year-old girl who lived with the pair at the flat.

It's thought she could have stayed alone in the flat with the body - which sources say was hidden under a bed - for up to a week before raising the alarm on Monday.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Major Investigation Team on 01277 262220.

* Did you know this woman? If so pay tribute to her here.