A woman killed in a parachute accident was an avid skydiver who "lived life to the full" and died "doing what she loved", her cousin has said.

Pamela Gower, 49, died after crash-landing on a car in an estate in Shotton, County Durham, when her parachute failed to open during a jump.

Ms Gower, of Hebburn in South Tyneside, described herself as a "crazy trainee skydiver" on her Facebook page, which included a number of pictures of herself taking part in the sport.

In her profile picture she is seen grinning and dressed in parachuting gear with the caption: "Nothing makes me more happy than skydiving, can't wait for the next jump!!!!"

Ms Gower's cousin Anthony Cairns paid tribute to her online, writing: "RIP Pamela Gower, we will all always love you so much.

"It is with great sadness I would like to share the unfortunate news that mylovely cousin Pamela Gower passed away yesterday afternoon after her parachute failed to open properly.

"She certainly lived life to the full that's for sure."

He added: "Just makes you are aware that you have to make the most of life as you have no idea when it is likely to be taken away from you. She was doing exactly that I guess, doing what she loved."

Mrs Gower worked as an employment adviser for Remploy, an organisation which provides employment placements for disabled people.

A spokesman for Remploy said they were "shocked and deeply saddened" to learn of the "tragic accident".

Durham Police said the death will be investigated by authorities, including the British Parachute Association.

The coroner has been informed and a post mortem examination will be carried out.