A girl described as a 'beautiful, kind soul' has died unexpectedly aged just 11. Annabel Greenhalgh started at Alcester Grammar School in Alcester, Warwickshire, just weeks before her death last week.
Her school shared a statement in which Annabel's parents Josie and Craig, from Warwick, said: "[We] are completely and utterly devastated to announce the passing of Annabel on Friday, October 14. The magnitude of our shock, grief and complete emptiness is unimaginable.
"She was the centre of our universe. Our hearts are shattered. We were so incredibly proud of Annabel.
"She was an inspiration to all. She had a beautiful, kind soul. She was gentle, phenomenally bright, fun and always inclusive of everyone. She was loved by so many.
"We have found comfort in the outpouring of love for her in our community and thank everyone that attended her vigil last night. We pray she felt the love for her."
Josie later shared with Birmingham Live that she wanted "as many people as possible to know how wonderful Annabel was". She added that the youngster had spent time at Birmingham Children’s Hospital over the years and the city was "very special" to her family.
St Chad’s Church in the Warwickshire village of Bishop’s Tachbrook will remain open every night this week between 6 and 7pm for those wishing to can light a candle or write in the book of condolence. Alcester Grammar School Principal Rachel Thorpe also paid tribute to Annabel.
She wrote: "Today AGS is shocked and saddened to mourn the unexpected death of one of our wonderful Y7 students, Annabel. In her short time with us, she threw herself into school life and was a well-loved member of her form. Our thoughts are with her parents."
