Tributes pour in for 'bright and beautiful' teen found dead after going missing

The heartbroken family of a 17 year old girl who tragically died in Greater Manchester have described her as "a bright, beautiful young woman".

A probe was initiated following the death in Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, of Catherine Blackhurst who was reported missing on Saturday, according to Greater Manchester Police.

Despite the valiant efforts of emergency service workers, Catherine sadly passed away at an address on Whalley Close around 9am on Sunday, the police force confirmed. A post-mortem examination was conducted but her cause of death remains undetermined.

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A 55 year old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail pending further investigations.

In a heartfelt tribute shared by the police, her family said: "Cat was a bright, beautiful young woman with an infectious enthusiasm for life.

"She left an instant, lasting impression and anyone she met instantly fell in love with her larger-than-life personality. Her siblings loved her endlessly, they enjoyed special individual memories with her that will be cherished forever.

"We can't put into words what Cat meant to us. She was so funny and smart. She accepted people for who they were with no judgment, and was never afraid to be herself.

"If love was enough, she would be here with us right now celebrating. Cat was an intelligent young lady, so full of life and a can-do attitude to where she wanted to go in life, with the drive to achieve anything.

"She did so much in a short life, from gymnastics to chess tournaments. Her apprenticeship in communications meant the world to her and she was a huge support to other children in care on social platforms.

"She had a love for her family and friends with a personality that everyone she met loved. As a family, we are immeasurably saddened with her passing and have so many special memories that will be cherished and talked about forever.

"We ask that our privacy is respected as we begin to process Cat's passing and grieve as a family."

Police continue to appeal for anyone who may have been in the vicinity of Whalley Close on Saturday evening and the early hours of Sunday morning to contact 0161 856 9307 quoting log number 802 of 21/09/2025, online via gmp.police.uk or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.