Our prayers are with the family and friends of 10-year-old Poppy Atkinson who has died following a collision in Kendal on the evening of Wednesday 5 March. We also pray for the recovery of an 8-year-old girl who was injured.

The following statement is issued on behalf of Nick Turley, headteacher of Old Hutton CE Primary, where Poppy was a pupil.

"As a school community we are all devastated to learn of the death of one of our pupils, Poppy Atkinson.

Poppy was a much-loved member of Old Hutton Church of England Primary School and was someone who brought joy, light and happiness to all she did. She was a bundle of energy and was also a fantastic footballer, having had trials for a number of local teams.

Poppy had a wonderful sense of humour and a deep love of life. This was evident in all her close friendships and in the relationships she had with all of our teaching staff. Our prayers will remain with Poppy’s family and as a school community we will do all we can to support them.

This morning, teaching staff have spent time with Poppy’s classmates and some of their parents so that they have the opportunity to remember Poppy with the love and affection we all have for her. Children in our other year groups will also be able to talk about Poppy and to reflect on her wonderful life.

We are continuing to work with the diocese, local authority and our pastoral team around extra support for our pupils and staff and will look to draw advice and support from educational psychologists in the coming days."

ENDS

For further information contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Head of Communications, on 07469 153658 or at communications@carlislediocese.org.uk.