23/07/2015

Pupil Dies On School Trip To France

A 12-year-old girl has died during a school trip to the south of France.

Jessica Lawson, a pupil at Wolfreton School in Hull, was on a visit to the Activ4 adventure centre in the Massif Central region.

It is understood a swimming accident occurred and she was airlifted to hospital in Limoges on 21 July, where she later died.

An investigation has been launched into the circumstances of her death.

In a statement on the school's website, the headteacher Dave McCready said: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce that one of our students was involved in a swimming accident yesterday on the French Water Sports Trip.

"The rest of the students currently remain in France and are being cared for by staff from the school and also the activity centre.

"The French authorities have already started their investigation into this tragic accident and are interviewing the rest of the group.

"Once this procedure has been completed plans will be implemented to bring the group home as soon as possible. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go to the family at this very difficult time."

A total of 24 students and three staff were taking part in outdoor activities at the adventure facility.

The Lawson family are currently in France trying to return Jessica's body home.

Writing on Facebook, Polly Lawson said: "Just thought I should let everyone who knows me and my family that the girl in this accident was unfortunately my sister Jess.

"We are in France doing everything we can to get her back into the country."

(LM)

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