A woman who died alongside her niece in a house fire had the “most beautiful wedding” just nine months earlier, and left behind a daughter who will miss her “forever”, her family have said.

Natalie McDonald, 34, and Valentina Foster, seven, died after a blaze at a property in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough.

The tribute to Mrs McDonald came as Jaden Wright, 23, made his first appearance before a crown court judge charged with murdering them.

In a statement released by Cleveland Police, her family said she had been known as Natalie Louise Kirton until she married Anthony McDonald nine months ago.

They said: “She had the biggest, most beautiful wedding; she sparkled like the shining beauty she was.

Valentina Foster and Natalie McDonald died in the house fire in Middlesbrough. | Cleveland Police

placeholder image — Valentina Foster and Natalie McDonald died in the house fire in Middlesbrough. | Cleveland Police

“She was loved by everyone, she was bright, bubbly and full of life, the heart and soul of our street and community, loved by all.

“Her family has lost its beautiful, kind soul.

“She was the life and soul of every party, and she will be sadly missed by our family, her two brothers and sister, all who are broken.

“Her nieces and nephews, with her being such a big part of their lives, being like a second mother to them. Her nana, grandad, mam and dad are all heartbroken.

“Also, her only daughter who will forever miss her mam.”

Court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Jaden Wright. | Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire

Four other people were injured in the fire, which happened at about 5.30am on August 26.

Wright did not enter pleas at a 10-minute hearing at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, where he faced charges of two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

Richard Wright KC, prosecuting, said a trial was expected to last three weeks.

Judge Jonathan Carroll set a trial start date of April 14.

Police officers at the scene on Birchington Avenue, Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, where Valentina Foster, aged seven, and Natalie McDonald, 34, died following a fire at an end-of-terrace property. | Owen Humphreys/PA Wire

Wright was remanded in custody ahead of a hearing on September 23 when he is expected to enter pleas.

Earlier this week Valentina’s family released a statement which said: “It is with overwhelming sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved daughter has passed away.

“She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words by her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched.”