This article is more than 7 months old

This article is more than 7 months old

Police have arrested a man on suspicion of murder after a woman’s body was found at a horse-breeding farm in Devon.

The body of Katherine Bevan, 53, was discovered at Combe Farm in the village of Gittisham, near Honiton, on 3 January.

Police initially did not treat the death as suspicious but after a postmortem examination last weekend they launched a murder inquiry and arrested a 26-year-old local man.

Coombe Farm Arabian Horses breeds show and endurance horses. Michael Harris, the owner of the farm, said: “Katherine was a very, very dear friend and a wonderful person. She was the most amazing person and we miss her so very much.”

He added: “Everyone here is obviously very upset but we have been told by the police we cannot say anything at the moment.”

Harris added: “Kate has been a friend and helping up here for the last five years. She started living here about a year ago. She was part of our family and she sat with us for dinner every night.

“She was amazing and gentle. It is utterly awful. She helped with one bull and the cattle and the horses. She had a passion for cattle.”

The Health and Safety Executive was informed about the death because it was initially thought to be a work accident, but police are now heading the investigation.

Bevan, who was known as Kate, was found in an animal pen at the farm and initially it was thought she might have died in an accident involving a bull.

Last month, Bevan published a book called Knowing Daisy, which centred on her work with cattle – and one particular calf called Daisy – at Combe Farm.

Bevan wrote: “I could have no idea of what lay ahead and how this tiny brown calf staring back at me would change my life for ever. I have been so blessed to be given the opportunity to go on this journey, one which has not only changed my life but changed me.”

She revealed she was drawn to the farm by the horses but stayed as she fell in love with a herd of cattle.

Bevan described the farm where her body was found as “the most perfect location I have ever found. A stunning landscape, amazing views and a charm all its own.”

She said: “Looking after young Daisy in those early days, I very quickly realised I could not imagine my life without her. I also began to learn just how affectionate and loving these little creatures are.”

In addition to her work on the farm, Bevan also worked at a veterinary group purchasing and managing medicines.

Her last post on Facebook was on New Year’s Eve when she posted pictures of two of the farm’s horses and wrote: “Matisse and Elderberry enjoying some time in Turkey Field on Saturday. They had a great time running and bucking and then rolling in the mud!”