Girl, 15, who died after stabbing in Hexham is named - as boy charged with murder

A 15-year-old girl who died after a stabbing in Northumberland has been named by police.

Holly Newton died and a 16-year-old was injured following the incident in Hexham on Friday evening.

Another boy, aged 16, has been charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

He will appear before magistrates in Newcastle on Monday.

Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police, said: "Holly still had so much left to look forward to in life, and this tragic incident has left her family devastated beyond words.

"Their grief simply cannot be put into words, and our thoughts are with both families involved and their loved ones as we continue to support them in every way we can.

"The investigation is ongoing, and I'd like to show my appreciation to the people of Hexham - and beyond - who have greatly assisted with our enquiries and shown their support.

"While our enquiries continue, we do believe all those involved are known to each other and there is no wider risk to the public."

She added: "Officers will remain in the area over the coming days, and we would encourage anyone with concerns to speak directly with them."

Tributes paid to 'helpful and kind' girl

Holly was a pupil at Queen Elizabeth High School in Hexham which paid tribute to her.

"We are in shock after the terrible events of Friday evening and devastated at the loss of Holly, a truly lovely student who was quiet, conscientious, helpful and kind," the school said.

"Our thoughts are with Holly's family at this time of unbearable pain. We will come together as a school community on Monday to support each other as we grieve."

Police were called to the Priestpopple area of Hexham shortly after 5.10pm on Friday.

Holly, from Haltwhistle in Northumberland, was taken to hospital but died later that evening. The injured boy suffered "serious, non-life-threatening injuries and remains in hospital", Northumbria Police said.

Forensics officers in white suits were seen in the town centre on Saturday and a cordon was expected to remain in place.

Hexham mayor Derek Kennedy yesterday said: "It's an absolute tragedy, the town is in complete shock. To lose one of our children who attends a local high school is just horrendous."

He said the town had a low crime rate and was last year named the happiest place to live in Britain.

"It's a very warm and loving community, so for a tragedy such as this to happen, we always find it much more difficult and it's knocked everyone for six," Mr Kennedy added.