THE world was a better place with her in it - those were the moving words of tribute paid to Virginia Smith who died when her car hit a tree as she drove through North Baddesley.

Her partner Lisa said the 35-year-old poet and writer would be remembered by all who knew her as a very special person.

She said: "Virginia was a much loved and valued friend by all who knew her and will be sadly missed. She was a wonderful writer and poet who always said she wouldn't know who she would be if she didn't have this.

"Virginia had a great love of literature, books, people and life. The world was a better place with her in it. She touched the lives of every person she met."

Born in Essex Miss Smith had lived in Romsey for several years where she lived with Lisa and was a second mum to Adam, Ben and Sophie.

Virginia died when the red Volkswagen Golf she was driving came off the road in Castle Lane, North Baddesley, last Thursday.

She died instantly after the vehicle struck a tree.

The road was closed for over three hours while officers tried to establish what caused the car to come off the carriageway around 9.10pm that night. They are still appealing for anyone who witnessed the accident to contact police on 0845 045 4545.