Family pay tribute to "bright and beautiful" 17-year-old
Catherine Blackhurst was found on Sunday after being reported missing
The family of a teenage girl, whose death police are treating as murder, have paid tribute to her.
The family of Catherine Blackhurst, a 17-year-old woman who died in Ashton-under-Lyne on Sunday have released a heartfelt tribute describing her as a “bright, beautiful young woman” with a “larger-than-life personality”.
Catherine, affectionately known as Cat, was remembered for her warmth, intelligence, and enthusiasm for life.
In a statement released by Greater Manchester 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 judgement 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.”
Greater Manchester Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and any information that could assist their enquiries. Officers are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have been in the area of Whalley Close on the night of Saturday 20th September and into the early hours of Sunday morning.
A 55-year-old man, arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on bail.
Anyone with CCTV, mobile phone footage or Ring doorbell footage is urged to contact police on 0161 856 9307, quoting log number 802 of 21/09/2025, or submit information online via gmp.police.uk