Tributes to teenage girl who died in minibus-lorry crash

Tributes have been paid to a teenager who died when a minibus carrying school pupils collided with a bin lorry.

Twenty-one children were on an art trip with three teachers when the crash happened on the A38 Kingsbury Road in Castle Vale, Birmingham.

The 14-year-old girl who lost her life has been named in reports as Holly Brown. She died at the scene.

People on social media have been leaving messages for the youngster's loved ones.

One wrote: "Absolutely heartbroken for Holly Brown. To her family and friends, know that pupils from John Taylor, past and present are devastated RIP."

Another said: "Absolutely heartbroken for holly, her family and all the students/staff at JT. Such a talented girl who was a pleasure to dance with, RIP."

One user who said his sister was also on the bus posted: "RIP to Holly who tragically lost her life today, but I'm glad my sister came home unharmed, my thoughts are with her family and friends."

A second teenage girl was taken to hospital with minor injuries and others were treated at the roadside.

The pupils caught up in the dual carriageway crash were from Year 9 and Year 12 at John Taylor High School in Barton-under-Needwood, near Burton-on-Trent.

In a letter to parents, the headteacher explained there had been a fatal accident involving one of its Year 9 students and said it would offer support to any students struggling with the news.

Residents have described hearing a "massive bang" before the arrival of emergency services at the scene, which was closed off.

One said there were "a lot of accidents here all the time, it's a busy road".

Police spokesman Superintendent Dean Hatton said: "Unfortunately, it became clear nothing could be done at the scene to save the life of the young girl and she was pronounced dead at the scene."

Asked if the pupils were wearing seat belts, he replied: "That will be part of our investigation and, at the moment, I can't confirm either way whether or not pupils were wearing seat belts or otherwise."

He said he would not speculate on the cause of the collision.

No arrests have been made and the drivers of the minibus and lorry are helping police with the investigation.

Officers have been carrying out skid tests and taking distance markings on the dual carriageway.