Two Barclays Bank lawyers who were killed in an Italian avalanche “died doing what they loved”, their families have said. Katherine Clarke, 39, and Matt Ziegler, 43, were both corporate lawyers and were skiing in a valley near the resort of Courmayeur, in the northern region of Valle d’Aosta, when they were killed alongside two other victims on Sunday afternoon.

They are understood to have been on a skiing trip with colleagues when the fatal incident took place.

Ms Clarke, a mother of one originally from New Zealand, lived in London with her husband, Jim Clarke-Sullivan, who she was due to celebrate her ninth wedding anniversary with today.

Mr Clarke-Sullivan said his wife will “be missed beyond words”, adding: “Words cannot describe the loss we feel after Sunday’s accident. Katherine was an amazing mother who loved our daughter, Isla, very deeply and was completely devoted to her.

“I have so many stories to tell Isla about her mum, who was always brave, always calm, bright and happy.

“Katherine had an adventurous spirit which found its home in the mountains.”