DETECTIVES have named the Wimborne murder victim as 22-year-old Jemma Patricia Benson.

Following a post-mortem examination it has been revealed Miss Benson died of asphyxia.

A Bournemouth man was being questioned by detectives in connection with her death.

Her devastated mother Joan Benson was too distraught to speak to the media yesterday.

But tributes have been paid by Jemma's former headteacher, Christine Dipple, at Talbot Heath School in Bournemouth.

She said: "I remember Jemma as a nice natured, pleasant member of the school community who got on well with her peers.

"She left the school in 1996 after taking her GCSEs.

"Staff are shocked to hear of this tragic event and extend their sympathy to Jemma's family."

Police chiefs have also expressed their sorrow and sympathy.

Superintendent Lynn Hart, of Dorset Police, said: "My sympathy and that of all the staff at Dorset Police goes to Jemma's mother and family at this terrible and tragic time.

"Jemma's murder has shocked the people of Wimborne, a tight-knit community, and I am sure that Jemma's mother and family are in their thoughts."

Neighbours also expressed their shock and sorrow at the news. Many only knew the family by sight or to wave to, saying they were very private and kept to themselves.

One woman said: "I knew Mrs Benson but I didn't even know she had a daughter. Such a dreadful thing."

The Echo revealed yesterday how police were alerted to the family's home in West Borough after a member of the public discovered Jemma's body at 5.30am.

Forensic teams are continuing to comb the house and gardens for clues and are expected to remain at the scene for several days.

Police have given no clue as to the motive to the attack.

Meanwhile murder squad officers led by Detective Chief Superintendent Phil Sincock are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.

He said: "A Bournemouth man is helping with our inquiries at Bournemouth police station and I would appeal to the people of Wimborne to come forward with any information they may have as soon as possible.

"Did anyone see or hear anything suspicious, unusual or out of the ordinary for the area in the vicinity of the house from breakfast time on Wednesday through to the early hours of Thursday?"

Witnesses should call the incident room at Ferndown police station on 01202 226070 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.