Mandy's boyfriend tells of his loss

The boyfriend of Shropshire mother Mandy Franks today said he was devastated by her death, which had hit him "like a brick wall".Jody Evans, 24, today also made a fresh appeal for information.

Miss Franks's body was found in the River Severn in the Apley area near Bridgnorth, almost four weeks after the 40-year-old went missing following a night out in Shrewsbury.

Mr Evans, who lived with Miss Franks in Belle Vue Road, Shrewsbury, said he was finding it difficult to come to terms with her death.

He said the outcome of the near month-long search for Miss Franks was the worst one possible.

"It's hit me like a brick wall I just can't believe it. I am just trying to get through hour by hour but it's not just me to consider in all of this, it's her son Louie and her mum and dad - we are all going through the same emotions.

"It's devastating it's just such a loss.

"I feel so empty and I wonder what it's all about when someone so precious and so loving can be taken away from you."

Miss Franks had last been seen alive shortly after midnight on October 5 outside the Montgomery's Tower bar, but Mr Evans said he could not understand why no-one had seen where she went afterwards.

He has now issued a fresh appeal for anybody with any information to contact police.

Mr Evans said: "She was out having a good time, happy and stuff, it's not like she was down or anything. She was trying to get home so how someone can be standing outside wanting to get home and then end up tragically in the river is beyond me."

He said he knew Miss Franks had been wanting to get home because of statements made by doormen and people outside the Montgomery's Tower pub.

An inquest has been opened after forensic tests revealed the body found in the river was that of Miss Franks.

Friends and neighbours of the mother-of-one spoke of their shock at her death, which is being treated by police as unexplained.

South Shropshire coroner Anthony Sibcy formally opened the inquest before adjourning the hearing until March 5 at Bridgnorth Town Hall.

Many friends of Miss Franks have paid tribute to her on the Shropshire Star's website.

Marie Louise Attenbo said: "Mandy and I were working colleagues and then great close friends.

"She was so very happy 2 (sic) weeks before her disappearance and so in love with Jodie (sic) her loving and caring partner."