Tributes to Longridge teenager killed in crash (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Tributes to Longridge teenager killed in crash

12:56pm Friday 1st June 2012 in Ribble Valley news

A TEENAGER described as a ‘shining star’ died in a horror crash after losing control of her car.

Tributes have poured in for 18-year-old Georgina Collinson, known as Georgie, with friends saying she was a ‘beautiful’ girl who was always smiling. Georgina died after her silver Peugeot 206 crashed into a wall.

The former Longridge High School pupil, had been driving along Lower Road, just outside the town, when police said she lost control close to the Corporation Arms pub, near the Spade Mill reservoirs.

Police said she died at the scene of the accident.

Flowers had been laid at the site for the popular and sporty teenager, who had more than 1,000 friends on Facebook.

The road has been described as an accident hotspot by nearby residents, with three collisions taking place on a 350-metre stretch from the junction with Preston Road to Ratcliffe Farm since February 2010.

Georgina, of Higher Road, leaves mum Caroline and dad John as well as sisters Katie and Jessica.

Jane Green, head teacher at Longridge High, said she would be remembered with “great affection”.

She said: “Georgina was an absolutely delightful young lady with a lovely, supportive family.

“She was extremely conscientious, contributing fully to school life and loving her sport, particularly netball.

“Very popular with her peers, Georgina also had a great relationship with staff at Longridge High School.

“Our hearts go out to her family and friends at this terrible time.”

Friends of the fun-loving teenager have also left messages of their shock and devastation at losing their friend.

Kate, John and Enya, who left flowers at the scene, said: “Heaven has gained a shining star. Rest in peace, you will be missed by many.”

Nicola Ellams wrote on Facebook: “I am thankful to have my three wonderful children. Never moan or complain about the things they do as you don't know when they will be taken away from you. RIP Georgie Collinson. Xxx”

And Rowan Barr said on Twitter: “Just heard some of the worst news. I’m in complete shock, I'll miss you every day. RIP beautiful Georgie Collinson.”

Police are now appealing for anybody who may have seen what happened to come forward.

Senior investigating officer, Sergeant Pat Worden from the road policing unit at Lancashire Police, said Georgina had “somehow lost control” of her car and “collided with a wall”.

The accident happened at 11.15pm on Wednesday.

He said: “I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward and contact police.

“I am particularly keen to speak to the driver of a small sports car, possibly a Mazda MX5, that drove past the scene of incident prior to the emergency services arriving, as I believe they could help.

“Understandably, this is a very difficult time for the family and we have specially trained officers supporting them.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Lancashire police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.