Family pays tribute to South Tyneside teen who fell from cliffs

Chirelle Calder. Picture supplied by family.

Loved ones of the 17-year-old, from Jarrow, who has been named locally as Chirelle Calder, will gather at Marsden cliffs at 11.45am today, exactly a day after she fell to her death.

They will release balloons for their pal to show their love and support for her and her family, at this heartbreaking time.

Chirelle's older sister Amy, 19, shared this beautiful picture of Chirelle with the Gazette.

Her father, Alan Calder, said in a Facebook post: "I have no words to describe how I feel.

"Absolutely devastated doesn’t seem to cover it.

"My beautiful daughter is now with the angels.

"Chirelle, Sleep tight, I hope Grandma, Grandad and Auntie Eva were there to meet you with lots of hugs and kisses,

Love you always XXXXXX"

Chirelle was airlifted to Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary in a critical condition after her fall, but she sadly passed away.

Police, fire fighters, the Great North Air Ambulance, road ambulances and and coastguards had been called out to the cliffs, near to the Marsden Grotto pub at about 11.40am on Saturday.

A police spokeswoman said afterwards: "This morning police received a report of concern for a 17-year-old girl at Marsden cliffs, South Shields.

"Officers attended the scene, and despite efforts of the emergency services to negotiate with the girl, she fell onto the rocks below.

"The teenager was taken to hospital by paramedics in a critical condition and she sadly passed away."

"Her family have been informed and are being supported at this difficult time."

Inquiries remain ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to contact the police on 101 quoting reference number 121 13/08/16.