A mum who was shot outside a pub on Valentine’s Day died from a fatal wound to the neck, an inquest has heard.

Lisa Smith died in the car park of The Three Horseshoes in Main Road, Knockholt, near Sevenoaks, on Friday, February 14.

Area coroner Roger Hatch opened an inquest into the grandmother’s death at Oakwood House, in Maidstone, today (March 5).

The court heard how Ms Smith was born in Sheerness and her cause of death was given as 1A gunshot wound to the neck.

The 43-year-old was married and lived in Walton Lane, Berkshire.

On February 20, investigating officer DCI David Higham told KentOnline he had “total confidence” the suspect, Edvard Stockings, who was Ms Smith’s partner, had fallen into the river.

It comes after a manhunt was launched to find Stockings, with officers attending the Dartford Crossing just before midnight on February 14, where a vehicle linked to the incident was recovered, alongside a firearm.

DCI Higham said: “At around midday on Saturday, we did have a sighting of a body. Unfortunately, we were unable to recover it before it became submerged again but I am confident from the description that it is the suspect for our offence.”

Tributes have been paid to the grandmother, including from her son Teejay who said: "My dear old mum, never be another to walk in her shoes, the best."

Another tribute said: "Our love and prayers are with your family, especially your boys and your beautiful granddaughter."

On Facebook, one woman wrote: "RIP Lisa. May god give you the best bed in heaven."

A full inquest will be heard at the same place on Wednesday, September 17.