TRIBUTES have been paid to a canoeist with a “love of life and adventure” who died after capsizing in a Cumbrian river on New Year’s Day.

York Canoe Club member Kate Stainsby, 41, died on Tuesday – two days after she became trapped underwater while on an expedition on Hobdale Beck, off the River Rawthey, near Sedbergh.

Today, Kate’s partner Paul Simpson, of Swinton, near Malton, said he and the couple’s three-year-old daughter Hannah have been left devastated by their loss.

He said: “Kate’s love of life and adventure will be with us forever, her constant smile and ‘can-do’ attitude mean we now have a fantastic three-year-old who is always making us laugh with her joyful attitude to life.

“Kate’s loss also leaves a big gap for her three brothers and parents.

“I would like to thank all her friends and family for the kind words and offers of help that have been forthcoming.”

Kate – also known as Catherine – was on a trip with fellow members of York Canoe Club when she fell into the river shortly after 2pm on Sunday.

She was trapped underwater while her friends – all experienced canoeists – battled to free her and drag her to the side of the beck. Cumbria Police, ambulance and mountain rescue teams then worked together to pull her from the water.

Kate, who worked as a Pilates’ instructor, was flown by air ambulance to Royal Preston Hospital by air ambulance where she later died.

Paramedic Andy Preston – part of the air ambulance crew at the scene – praised the members of York Canoe Club for their help in the rescue. A spokeswoman for the club said it was a distressing time for the members.

She said : “Our thoughts are with her family. All individuals involved in the incident were very experienced and we are grateful to the emergency services for all their help in the rescue.”

Cumbria Police said all of the other canoeists were safe and well and they have now passed the details on to the Preston coroner.