Workmates are devastated (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Workmates are devastated

The Red or White restaurant in Trowbridge where Hayley Richards was head waitressHAYLEY RICHARDS MURDER: TRIBUTES from friends and colleagues have been pouring in for murdered mother-to-be Hayley Richards.

Miss Richards was head waitress at the Red or White restaurant and was formerly employed at the Lamb pub, Argos and Terry's nightclub.

Police were sent to her home after she failed to turn up at work at Red or White in Castle Street on Saturday.

As police continue to hunt for her killer, colleagues have been left trying to come to terms with the tragedy.

Restaurant owner Marco Polledri said he would always have good memories of the time they spent together.

He said: "Her laughter had the ability to engage everyone and she would often be found at the centre of a party entertaining all those around. "This was without question one of her strong points, her ability to connect with people, however little or much time she spent with them.

"We had the privilege of working with Hayley over the last 12 months.

"She had a bubbly and infectious personality and was very popular with staff and with customers of all ages.

"During this time, we had many opportunities both at work and socially to get to know Hayley."

Customers at the restaurant said Miss Richards was always smiling and was a pleasure to be around.

Mr Polledri said he and his staff would remember their friend with "fondness in their hearts".

"She was always prepared to make an effort to be there for other people," he said.

"Whether it be with a laugh or a smile and a coffee she was prepared to give her time for others.

"The really sad thing in all this is that people have been talking about the police and people seem to have forgotten about Hayley."

Staff at the restaurant were so devastated by the news a counsellor was called to help them through their grief. Former colleagues have also paid glowing tributes to their friend.

Tim Burke, 43, of Fleece Cottages, worked with Miss Richards at Terry's nightclub in Hill Street.

He said: "She was very well-liked and a bubbly person.

"If you needed a friend, she would be the one to go to. She would stick up for you and look out for you.

"She had loads of friends all round Trowbridge.

"I worked at Terry's for about 10 years and she worked there for about five or six at the same time.

"As soon as she walked through the door she would say hello to everybody. She just absolutely loved life."