Jessica Lawson: Pupil Died On School Trip

A 12-year-old British schoolgirl has died in a swimming accident on a school holiday in France.

Jessica Lawson, a pupil from Wolfreton School in Hull was among a group of 24 students and three staff visiting an adventure centre in the Massif Central region.

Her sister Polly Lawson, who is in France with the family, said on Facebook: "It's a huge loss but we are remembering how beautiful she was and still is and how she was just a joy to know.

"All of your thoughts are appreciated at this time. Remember who she was, not who she could have been, it is important we respect and cherish the memories we had with her."

Another sister Hannah Davison said: "We are all heartbroken and devastated. Jess was the most beautiful and outgoing girl and I am proud to be her sister.

"I will live my life to the full just like she would have done. I love you angel. Forever."

Ms Lawson was reportedly among a group playing in a lake and jumping from a pontoon.

The pontoon overturned and some of the children were trapped underneath, it was reported.

A lifeguard dived down twice before finding the girl, who was taken by air ambulance to hospital in the city of Limoges.

Steve Scott, managing director of tour company Activ4, said: "We can confirm that a student on one of our trips to the south of France passed away this morning following a swimming incident yesterday afternoon.

"At this stage the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.

"The owners of the activity centre and senior management from Activ4 are working closely with the local authority and the school to provide all necessary support and assistance."

Wolfreton headteacher Dave McCready said: "We are all deeply saddened by this tragic event and our thoughts and prayers are with the student's family at this difficult time.

"Parents of the other children on the trip are being kept fully informed and counselling support is being made available at the school. This support will continue on the return of the group."

The school group left for France on Saturday and were due to return home this Thursday.