THE family of a “vivacious” and “inspirational” young woman are appealing for any information about the hours leading up to her death.

Twenty-five-year-old Michaela Haines, originally from Pembroke, died in Tenby just a few days before Christmas.

The Pembrokeshire College student, who had dreams of becoming a mental health nurse, was found at a property in the early hours of December 23.

A “happy, bubbly girl with a heart of gold,” Michaela’s family are at a loss as to the reasons for her death.

“Words can’t describe the pain the family are going through,” said Michaela’s mum, Christine Williams.

Appealing to anyone who saw or spoke to Michaela in the hours and days before her death, Christine said: “We just want to piece everything together.

“We know it’s not going to bring her back but at least then we will know the bigger picture.

“Anyone who has any information, friends, colleagues, please contact the police to let them know anything she talked about or said.”

A police spokesman said there were not believed to be any suspicious circumstances, and HM Coroner had been informed.

Milford Mercury:

A hard-working and enthusiastic young woman, the former Tasker Milward pupil was currently studying health care, and worked at Fecci’s chip shop in Tenby.

In her youth, Michaela earned awards from The Prince’s Trust and Duke of Edinburgh Schemes, volunteered as a youth worker at Pembroke Dock youth club, and raised money for various charities.

“She just wanted to help people,” said Christine. “She was one in a million, you’ll never find another person like her.”

A “free spirit” with a passion for dance, horse-riding, motocross and surfing, Michaela loved the outdoors, and also planned to travel.

“She wanted to achieve so much, she wanted so much out of life,” said Christine.

“The mountain of things she has done is unbelievable for such a young girl.”

More than 4,000 has now been raised towards a fitting funeral service for Michaela, via the Just Giving website.

“I’ve been so overwhelmed by people’s messages and donations,” Christine said.

“People have said she was always there for them, no matter what the time, and they’ll never forget that.”

Carla Reily, Michaela’s aunt, said: “We would like to turn the outpouring of love into giving Michaela the send-off she truly deserves.

“Michaela was a loving daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin and godmother, and a friend to all.

“We are all deeply in shock and completely devastated by her untimely and sudden death.

“It’s a tragedy, we’ve all been left heartbroken.”

She added: “Michaela would walk into a room and it would light up, she was effervescent.

“She touched so many people’s lives with her beautiful smile and caring nature, and her sparkle will forever shine on in our hearts.”

To donate to the fund, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/carla-reily-1

Michaela's funeral will be on Tuesday, January 10, at 1.30pm in St Mary's Church Pembroke.

There will then be a service at 3.15pm in Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Afterwards, there will be a chance for friends and family to raise a glass to Michaela at Monkton Swifts Social Club.

Her family has said all are welcome, to what they hope will be a happy celebration of her life.

All further enquiries should be made to W & M J Rossiter and Sons Funeral Directors, Tenby, on 01834 843160.