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Tributes paid to 'bright' 11-year-old girl who died just weeks after starting new school

Tributes paid to 'bright' 11-year-old girl who died just weeks after starting new school
Annabel, Alcester Grammar School

Tributes are pouring in on social media following the sudden and tragic death of 11-year-old student Annabel Greenhalgh.

Annabel, who has been described as "phenomenally bright" died unexpectedly on Friday - just weeks after starting an all-new school in Alcester, England.

Speaking on her death, Annabel's heartbroken parents, Josie and Craig, 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."

The girl's parents went on to say "She was the centre of our universe. Our hearts are shattered.

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"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."

Speaking to Birmingham Live, Annabel's mother Josie added: "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."

Annabel's local church has since welcomed her former pupils for an afternoon of reflection and remembrance. In another touching post, Alcester Minister for Children and Families wrote: "They lit candles and wrote messages including their memories of Annabel, how they felt and things they would like to say to her. We continue to pray for Annabel's family, friends, the school and its wider community at this time."

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Supports have been made available to Annabel's friends and family.

The family would also like to thank the "very special" staff at Birmingham Children's Hospital, where the girl spend some time over the last number of years.

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