The family of a “brave, loyal and deeply kind” young woman have paid tribute to her after an inquest into her death was delayed so further evidence could be gathered.

Molly Balding, 31, who lived at the Alberta Caravan Park in Seasalter, died earlier this year following a long-running battle with her mental health.

Her sister, Anna, says Molly was “incredibly clever” and had “the most beautiful soul”.

“Trying to describe Mol in words feels almost impossible, she didn’t quite fit within the limits of language,” said Anna.

“What I do know is that the world has lost a truly special soul, and heaven has gained an angel.

“In so many ways, the earth was too small for her - even though she was a little too small for the world at just 5ft 1ins. But although small, Molly was mighty.”

A gifted writer who also harboured dreams of being a vet when she was younger, Molly studied sociology at Canterbury Christ Church University after attending the Abbey School and Queen Elizabeth Grammar School – both in Faversham.

She grew up in the market town alongside her sister, sharing hot chocolates and peanut butter toasties on school mornings.

Anna says growing up with Molly “meant a lot of uncontrollable laughing”, while the family still treasure the “witty and wonderful poems and stories” she wrote for them growing up.

She was raised by mum Charlotte Bailey and dad Ian Balding, but her two grandparents, Susan and George Hendry, were also a deep source of comfort for her.

As an adult, she was a highly empathetic soul who “always thought so deeply and critically about the world around her”.

As a result, while she was a generally gentle and soft-spoken character, those who crossed her beliefs would be met with her fiercer side.

“She never shied away from speaking up for what she believed in,” Anna recalled. “She was feisty and fought for what was right - even if that sometimes got us into trouble.

“Molly was brave, too. She sought out the biggest rollercoasters, and she stood up to bullies without fear to protect those she loved.

“She was also unpredictable, outrageous, and utterly hilarious.

“You can’t talk about Molly without mentioning her wonderfully ditsy and clumsy side.”

The time Molly ordered 6,000 toilet rolls to her work instead of 60, or losing one of her first jobs at a deli because she couldn’t “resist sneaking pieces of cheese”, are fond stories for those who knew her.

As are the 11 attempts to obtain a driving licence – which she finally managed to achieve – or singing songs from the musical Les Misérables at any given chance.

She was also a huge animal lover, with a particular fondness for elephants and her pet rodents, especially her gerbils.

The “gerbs”, as she called them, were treated to a life of luxury, with many happy hours spent playing with them.

One of her fondest memories was visiting the elephant sanctuary in Thailand, with her home decor a reminder of such a magical and formative experience for her.

“She lit up every room she entered, with her contagious laugh and deeply kind and endlessly selfless personality,” said Anna.

“Even in her final years, facing silent battles that must have been unimaginably hard, she carried herself with immense courage.

“She rarely spoke about what she was going through, though I so wish she had because she was so deeply loved by so many.”

Molly died from toxicity of a non-prescription painkiller on May 11 this year, with an inquest into her death opening last month.

A full hearing on October 3 was adjourned at the family’s request after it emerged the coroner did not have medical records relating to her mental health.

It is expected to resume early next year.

Mental health problems can affect any of us at any time in our lives.

When life gets tough, talking can help.

Call the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123, or chat in confidence to a trained Release the Pressure adviser, anytime, just text the word SHOUT to 85258 or call 0800 107 0160.

For details about other mental health support in Kent and Medway, including Amparo who provide support to anyone bereaved by suicide, please visit kent.gov.uk/mentalhealth