COUNCILLORS have paid tribute to a “highly-valued” Buckinghamshire Council social worker who was found dead next to her sister in a Wembley park last month.

A murder investigation has been launched into the death of Bibaa Henry, who had reportedly worked at the council since around 2017, after she was found unresponsive in Fryent Country Park on Sunday, June 7.

READ MORE: Bucks social worker found dead in park

At the first full meeting of the new council last night (Wednesday, July 15), mayor Richard Scott said:  “Members will be aware in early June we heard of the dreadful and distressing news about the tragic deaths of our colleague Bibaa Henry and her sister Nicole Smallman.

“The awful circumstances surrounding Bibaa and Nicola’s [deaths] have shocked and upset us all at Buckinghamshire Council.

“It’s been particularly distressing for Bibaa’s colleagues in our children’s services.

“Bibaa was a highly-valued and well-respected social worker looking after some of the most vulnerable children and young people in the county.

READ MORE: Teenager appears in court charged with murder of Bucks social worker

“She was much-loved by everyone who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.”

Following this, all 145 councillors taking part in the virtual meeting fell silent for a minute to pay their respects to Bibaa and Nicole.

Danyal Hussein, 18,  has been charged with two counts of murder and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with the deaths.

READ MORE: Police officers shared 'inappropriate photos' of dead Bucks social worker

He appeared at the Old Bailey on Monday, July 6, and was remanded into custody before he is next expected to appear in court on September 21, as reported by the Metro.