Tributes paid to woman found dead in Surrey hotel as man charged with murder

The family of a businesswoman found dead in a luxury Surrey hotel have paid tribute to an “incredible mother” who was “loved by many”.

Samantha Mickleburgh, 54, was found dead by a housekeeper in a room at Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, Surrey on 14 April. James Cartwright, 60, was charged with murder and controlling and coercive behaviour in relation to the case on Sunday. He is from Axminster, Devon.

On Monday, Cartwright appeared at Guildford magistrates court. He spoke to confirm his name and age and was dressed in a quilted jacket and grey trousers.

Mickleburgh had helped launch several startups and had worked for British Airways, BP and Thomson Reuters. Cartwright runs an estate agency in Axminster.

Mickleburgh’s family paid tribute to her in a statement which was released by Surrey police.

“We are devastated by the loss of Samantha, an incredible mother, beautiful, much cherished daughter, and friend,” they said. “Loved by many, she was a true example of class, integrity, and dedication to those around her. Lighting up any room she entered with her vivacious personality and endearing smile.

“No words can truly capture all her beloved qualities and nothing will ever fill the hole left in the lives of those who loved her.”

Her two children said: “Nothing can prepare you to face the world without your parents at a young age. Our mother had been both parents to us since the loss of our father and she was doing such an amazing job at it. No finer example of a mum could there be, we will feel the loss in every aspect of our lives.

“We are grateful to be such a close family and for the support we continue to receive from those who knew Samantha. We as a family wish for privacy at this impossibly difficult time.”

Cartwright will appear at Guildford magistrates court again on Wednesday.