Girl, 8, dies on trip to activity camp

AN inquiry has been launched after an eight-year-old girl collapsed and died on a school trip to an adventure camp.

Charlotte Wright had not shown any previous signs of illness and was described as being "a lively and energetic" youngster.

She was with a group of 60 pupils spending the weekend at adventure holiday firm PGL's Marchants Hill activity centre in Hindhead, Surrey.

Tragedy struck on Sunday as she jumped to the ground from a tree. Witnesses said she collapsed "without warning", slumped to the ground and was unconscious.

An ambulance was called and Charlotte was taken to the Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford but never regained consciousness and died. A post mortem revealed she died of natural causes.

Directors of PGL have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and Surrey Police are awaiting a report from the coroner's officer.

An inquest is expected to be held.

Charlotte had travelled to the centre with a party from Halfway Houses Primary School in Sittingbourne, Kent.

Headteacher Gerry Wetherell said: "We are shocked and devastated about the sudden and unexpected death of one of our pupils.

"This is an absolute tragedy. She was a special girl - full of fun and hardworking.

"She loved animals and joined in everything she could.

" She will be greatly missed by the whole school community.

"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family and friends and we will do everything we can to support them at this distressing time."

Charlotte's family are said to be too upset to comment about the tragedy.

Copyright 2002
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.