A 12-YEAR-OLD Nelson girl died after falling from a tree while playing with friends.

An assembly was held at Walton County High School today to say prayers for Year Eight pupil Rachel Stewart.

The accident happened as she was playing on land behind Fisher-More High School, Gibfield Road, Colne, last night.

Police said Rachel fell from a "considerable height."

Witnesses said she initially got up but then collapsed, shortly before 9pm.

She was taken to Royal Preston Hospital by air ambulance, where she was pronounced dead.

Deputy headteacher at Walton David Helme said as well as the assembly, counselling would be offered to help pupils come to terms with the tragedy.

He said: "Rachel was a lovely girl, very spirited and full of life. She was a very strong character and will be sadly missed. Our concern must be for the pupils at the school and we will do everything we can to help them get though this and come out of the other side.

He added: "We have a team of people at the school who are trained in counselling and they will be on hand if pupils need to talk to them."

Inspector Steve Baines said: "People at the scene tried to resuscitate to the girl, which was carried on by paramedics.

Investigations are continuing into the circumstances of this tragic incident and the coroner has been informed."

A family liaison officer has been appointed.

East Lancashire Coroner Richard Taylor has been informed.

County councillor Tim Ormrod, who lives near the scene, said: "I could see the blue lights of the ambulances and the helicopter descending into the field.

"The tragedy is a great loss to the family and my condolences go out to them.

"It's an open field behind the school and it's very popular with children."