FAMILY members yesterday paid tribute to a woman who died in a house fire at the weekend.

Dorothea Klaczek, 48, died following a fire at her home in Garrett Walk, Middlesbrough, shortly before 8pm on Saturday, despite efforts by firefighters to revive her.

Her parents, John and Meenie Bullock, of Pentland Avenue, Billingham, yesterday recalled a religious girl who gave up her time to help others.

"She was a very lovely girl and a very good believer in God," said Mrs Bullock, 68.

"On Sundays she would go to hospitals in the area and give out communion.

"She was very shy and would go without so she could give to others. She will be sadly missed."

Her stepfather said she was very intelligent woman who devoted her time to the church and was a volunteer at the John Paul Centre, in Grange Road, Middlesbrough

He recalled how she got a first class degree in physics from Manchester University.

Mr Bullock, 74, said: "She was an honest woman with a lot of integrity."

An inquest was opened and adjourned by Teesside coroner Michael Sheffield yesterday.

Evidence of identification was given by Miss Klaczek's relative, Elaine Caird, 29, of St David's Close, Billingham.

Funeral arrangements were still being finalised yesterday.