17-06-2025
Tributes paid to 'loveliest person' churchgoing mother who was found strangled at her home - as husband faces court on murder charge
A mother found strangled to death at her home was the 'loveliest person who never stopped smiling', a devastated friend said today.
The body of churchgoer Izzy Knight, 32, was discovered by police on Friday at the semi-detached home she shared in Northamptonshire with her husband Paul and their two young daughters.
Mr Knight, 35, an area sales manager for a pottery business, was later arrested and charged with his wife's murder.
The children - thought to be aged five and two - had been taken to school and nursery by a female relative that morning.
They were not at home when police arrived at the property in Burton Latimer, Northamptonshire.
Rachael Newman from Burton Latimer Baptist Church said today: 'Izzy was the loveliest person, just an amazing, genuine friendly woman who never stopped smiling.
'She was also a wonderful mother.
'Izzy would come to the church and the library regularly with her two daughters.
'Why this has happened, we don't know. She never mentioned anything about her relationship.
'Myself and others at the church only found out about the news yesterday and we are all absolutely devastated.
'All we can do is offer help and support to Izzy's friends, family and anyone who needs it.'
Ms Newman made the heartfelt comments as she left a bouquet of flowers on the front lawn among a pile of floral tributes.
A message on one bouquet from Burton Latimer Community Library read: 'To the family of a beautiful and wonderful mum Izzy xx.
'Your smile and brilliance remains even though you are far from us. Shine bright lovely girl xx'
Another note read: 'I am utterly devastated by the news. There are no words for something so heartbreaking.
'Izzy was such a lovely, kind person - always warm, always smiling. My heart breaks for her little girls.'
Northamptonshire Police called round to the property following inquiries into reports of a car crashing into a nearby McDonald's restaurant at about 3.30pm on Friday.
Mr Knight was remanded in custody at Northampton Magistrates' Court yesterday and is due to appear at Northampton Crown Court on Wednesday.
A post-mortem examination found Mrs Knight had died as a result of pressure being applied to her neck.
A neighbour on the small modern housing estate where the couple lived said: 'It's a massive shock - they seemed to be a normal couple.
'The husband spent a few hours last Christmas decking the house out with fairy lights and decorations.
'But a friend of mine knows someone who lives a bit nearer to the couple and he said that they used to be heard arguing quite a bit.
'It's the girls I feel sorry for. They've lost their mother and their father has been arrested and charged with her murder.
'A female relative came round to the house on Friday morning and took the girls to nursery and school. I haven't seen them since.'
A spokesperson for Northamptonshire Police confirmed yesterday: 'A woman found dead in Burton Latimer has been named as 32-year-old Isobella Knight.
'Isobella, who was fondly known as Izzy by her family and friends, was found at a property in Donnington Road on the afternoon of Friday, June 13, during enquiries following a collision in Folley Way.
'Detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) are running a murder investigation, with a preliminary post-mortem indicating Izzy died as a result of applied pressure to her neck.
'A formal identification process was carried out earlier today, Monday, June 16, at Leicester Royal Infirmary.
'A 35-year-old man arrested on Friday has today appeared before Northampton Magistrates' Court charged with her murder.
'Paul Knight, of Donnington Road, Burton Latimer, was remanded into custody until Wednesday, when he will make his first appearance at Northampton Crown Court.
'Specially trained family liaison officers are supporting Izzy's family, who will be releasing a tribute to her via Northamptonshire Police within the coming days.'
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Torie Harrison, of EMSOU, said: 'Our thoughts and condolences are with Izzy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
'She was a much-loved daughter, sister and mother and the devastation caused by her death is immeasurable.
'Our team continue to work at pace to ensure her loved ones have the answers they need, and to secure justice for Izzy.'
Anyone with information which could assist detectives, including CCTV, smart doorbell or dash-cam footage, is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101.
They can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
