Tribute to student found beaten to death in Poland

A British student found bludgeoned to death in Poland was yesterday described as exceptionally talented and popular by staff at her university.

Catherine Zaks, 21, pictured right, was discovered next to a rail embankment in Krakow. The second-year undergraduate, who had joint British and Polish nationality, had been staying with relatives and was due to return to the UK after working there for a month.

Dr Grant Pooke of the University of Kent – where she was studying history and philosophy of art – said: "Kate was an exceptionally talented and well-liked student.

"She developed a real gift for journalism and writing, having completed an arts review while in Poland. Our thoughts are with Kate's family and friends." She told relatives on Friday she was going to meet someone but was found dead at 5am the next day.

Police spokeswoman Katarvyna Cislo said: "She had been hit by a hard object on the head." British officers are helping the investigation.

Detectives questioned a 30-year-old local man but later said he was not thought to have been involved.

The student's parents, who live in England, are believed to have flown to Poland following her death.