THESE smiling photos show a side to Joanne Lee that has rarely been mentioned in the coverage surrounding the 34-year-old’s death.

Joanne, of White Court, Great Notley, was found dead in a suspected suicide pact formed on the internet.

Her struggle with depression and anorexia have been well publicised in the wake of the tragedy.

But her family and friends want to pay tribute to the girl with an infectious giggle who loved to make people laugh.

Mum Jill Chappell and stepdad Brian said in a joint statement: “As a toddler, Jo’s giggle was infectious. Her refreshing naiv-ety was with her throughout her life.

“Jo was always wanting to please and be loved – a hug, a cuddle meant so much. The small things pleased her the most.

“Jo spent most of her life in White Court where she was close to her parents, sisters Nicola and Trudy, and treasured friends.

“She loved it here and we have been overwhelmed by all the messages from the many who have known her, including those from White Court School, White Court Dance Unlimited, Rainbows and Brownies and Notley High School, who remembered her so fondly.

“Her incomprehensible death has come as a deep shock to us all.

“Jo has left us so many happy memories and we cannot begin to imagine our lives without her.”

Her sister, Niky Starckey, said they both had fond memories of growing up together on White Court, and that Joanne was delighted when she got her own house there, with her much-loved cats Midnight and Magic.

She said: “Joanne was such a thoughtful sister. She never forgot a birthday or special event and although she didn’t go out much, she always came round with a card and present on the day.

“She was happy at White Court School and really enjoyed going to White Court Dance with me.”

Dance teacher Margaret Cave said she had read reports of Joanne being a quiet girl, but says she used to let herself go and join in wholeheartedly.

She added: “Jo and her sisters came dancing for many years.

“During that time, Jo gained several medals and also took part in our shows and local fetes.

“We had lots of fun putting together pantomimes at Braintree Institute. She enjoyed disco and gym, but I seem to remember Jo was pretty good at tap, because she had a good sense of rhythm.

“It was a big shock to hear what happened to her and my thoughts are with her family.”

Joanne was found dead alongside Steve Lumb, 35, of Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, on September 20 in a Vauxhall car.

An inquest into the deaths was opened and adjourned on Monday. The coroner heard preliminary reports showed they died from hydrogen sulphide toxicity and two buckets of chemicals were found in the vehicle.