Family statement after death of Donatello owner Sue Addis

Police found the body of the 69-year-old at a house in Cedars Gardens, Brighton, after being called to the site shortly before 7pm last night.

An investigation has been launched by detectives and a 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Donatello was founded by Mrs Addis's partner Pietro in 1987 and has become a Brighton institution, sponsoring the city's football club for several years.

Donatello co-owner Sue Addis

In recent years, following Pietro's retirement, Mrs Addis has run the restaurant with her three sons.

A statement issued on the Donatello Facebook page this afternoon read: "We appreciate all the recent messages of condolence and support.

"The Addis family ask that you please respect their privacy during this difficult time."

• READ MORE: City's shock over tragic death of Donatello boss Sue Addis

Tributes for Mrs Addis have flooded in following the news of her death.

She has touched the lives of hundreds of people through both her business ventures and her seemingly ceaseless charity work.

This included being a long-term trustee of The Argus's charity arm - The Argus Appeal.

Sude Addis hosting a charity event - one of many she organised at Donatello

Argus Editor Arron Hendy said: "Here at The Argus we are in shock. Sue Addis was a stalwart of our community. It felt like she was one of our Argus family.

"She would do anything for anyone, be it the homeless or community groups in Brighton.

"Sue was a huge supporter of The Argus Appeal charity as a trustee for 20 years, helping to raise thousands of pounds, every penny of which was given to local good causes.

• READ MORE: Updates as murder investigation launched after Donatello owner Sue Addies found dead

"Sue’s big passion was the smaller charities where a smaller amount of money would make a huge difference.

"She had the ability to mix with everyone in society and never discriminated against anybody."