TRIBUTES were today paid to a teenager killed in a tragic road accident.
Fifteen-year-old Hannah Ferguson, from South Shields, was hit by a silver Nissan Micra on John Reid Road, at 11.55pm on Friday night.
As revealed on the Gazette's website on Saturday, she was taken to South Tyneside District Hospital suffering serious head injuries but died on Saturday morning.
Police are continuing their investigation into how the accident happened and are appealing for information. Her mum Deborah is said to be comforting Hannah's three younger sisters, surrounded by neighbours, friends and family at their home in Marsden.
Ken Gibson, headteacher at Harton Technology College, where Hannah was a pupil, described the teenager as a "lovely girl all round".
He added: "We are all devastated by Hannah's death.
"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and friends."
Counselling sessions have been arranged for Hannah's friends at the school.
This is the second death to hit the school in less than six months – former pupil Glen Corner died after being stabbed on his 16th birthday, the day after picking up his GCSEs.
At the scene of the crash near the crematorium, Hannah's friends and family had left flowers, balloons and teddies with their messages for the teenager.
Her cousin Dan's read: "Hannah, you will always be remembered, it won't be the same without you – I will always love you."
Another said: "To darling Hannah.
My arms are around you, cradling you with love until the end of my days. I wish you peace always.
Love and peace until the end of time." Aunty Lindy, Chris, Nic (crct) and Rachel.
The tragedy has left everyone in the Biddick Hall area, where the accident happened and family members live, extremely shocked.
A local resident said: "It has shocked the whole community."
Another added: "It's such a tragedy, the whole family are devastated."
Biddick Hall councillor Olive Punchion said: "It's dreadful.
"No time is good to loose a child, but this close to Christmas is particularly heartbreaking.
"I think it is so sad – I just don't know how you get over losing a child."
Witnesses are asked to call 454 7555 ext 65946.
By LEAH SHAWleah.shaw@northeast-press.co.uk