READERS have paid their respects to an unknown woman who was laid to rest in a pauper’s funeral.

The identity of a woman, who was found dead on Askam beach, is still unknown nearly a year on from when she was found.

She was described as being of East Asian origin and aged between 30 and 40.

She was buried at Barrow Cemetery in a public health funeral, also known as a pauper's funeral, with no next of kin able to be found.

Coastguard crew attended the ceremony, held on November 26, wearing uniform, Barrow Council said.

The woman's body was found on the beach by a member of the public in the early hours of July 29.

It was believed the body washed onto the shore overnight.

Officers released an appeal in the hope of identifying the woman with no success.

Police have confirmed they are still unable to identify the woman.

Following her death, police said they made contact with other forces - neighbouring and further afield - to ensure that missing persons databases were referenced.

But none of the forces contacted reported a match.

An inquest into the woman's death was opened in August and adjourned until a later date.

No date has been set for any new hearing.

Yvonne Woodend said: “What a beautiful kind thing to do God bless her. Thank you all for your help well done to all concerned at Furness Coastguard.”

Lori Robinson said: “So very sad, thank you for caring about this lady, so nice of you all god bless.”

Sophie Mellor said: This is very sad. Lovely the coastguard crew attended.”

Jan Hannah said: “So sad, thank you to those who attended and didn't leave her alone.”

Janet Poskitt said: “Respect for the unknown.”

Paul Bonneville said: “Good on the Furness Coastguard volunteers. They are the Pride of Barrow.”

Lisa Kummer said: “What a shame.”