A poignant tribute has been organised in memory of an “amazing” accountant who died by suicide at the age of 26. 

Marina Watters, who was from the Toftwood area of Dereham, died after taking her life at her home in Warren Place on April 26 last year.

She showed an aptitude for numbers from a young age and went on to fulfil her ambition of becoming a fully qualified chartered accountant after studying at Neatherd High School. 

Now, in memory of their colleague and friend, Stephenson Smart Accountants and Business Advisors have chosen Papyrus as their charity of the year for 2024. 

Fakenham & Wells Times: The team at Stephenson Smart’s Fakenham office, many of whom worked closely with Marina WattersThe team at Stephenson Smart’s Fakenham office, many of whom worked closely with Marina Watters (Image: Stephenson Smart)

Miss Watters worked at the Fakenham office. Her colleague and friend, Jo Brown, remembers her with much fondness.  

"Marina was always helpful and very work orientated," she said. 

"Her work was her life and she often put in time out of hours for clients. She was very popular and well liked.  

Fakenham & Wells Times: A poignant tribute has been organised in memory Marina WattersA poignant tribute has been organised in memory Marina Watters (Image: Supplied by family)

“To achieve what she did by becoming a fully qualified accountant at such a young age was amazing, especially considering her difficult younger years."   

She went on to describe her as “an intelligent and energetic young woman” who “struggled to be free from a sadness in her life”. 

The loss of Miss Watters sent shockwaves through her friends, family, and colleagues that are still felt to this day.  

Ms Brown added: “She is very much missed. It is hoped that through raising funds and awareness for Papyrus that another young life can be saved.” 

Martyn Benstead, partner at the Fakenham office, remembers her as a unique member of the team. 

She said: “Everybody loved Marina and she meant a lot to me. She was one of those people who had it all; the personality to get on well with her colleagues and clients, as well as academic acumen. 

“She had all the attributes to be a great accountant, with a lot of potential. 

“I am comforted that the organisation has chosen to remember Marina by voting for Papyrus as our charity this year. It feels like a fitting memorial."

  • Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide runs the free helpline HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141. 
  • To pay tribute to a loved one, email norfolkobituaries@newsquest.co.uk
  • To read all obituaries and tributes join the Facebook group Norfolk's Loved & Lost.