Tributes to 'much-loved' Helensburgh schoolgirl who died after being rushed to hospital

Tributes have been paid to a “much-loved” schoolgirl who died after being rushed to hospital after she became unwell.

Olivia Curley, 11, was an S1 pupil at Hermitage Academy in Helensburgh.

She became unwell at around 11.40am on Sunday and was taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, where she died the following day.

Police are treating the death as “unexplained” and are investigating the circumstances.

Douglas Morgan, headteacher at Hermitage Academy, paid tribute to Olivia on behalf of the school.

He said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our S1 pupil, Olivia Curley.

“Olivia was a much-loved member of our school community and an important part of the primary seven group at Hermitage Primary, who recently joined us at Hermitage Academy. Her loss is felt profoundly by staff, pupils and families alike.

“To support our community, a quiet space has been prepared for any pupil or staff member who may need time to reflect or talk.

“In addition, our chaplaincy and exchange counselling teams are available in school and will continue to provide care and support in the days and weeks ahead.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Olivia’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”

An online fundraiser has been set up to support her family.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 11.40am on Monday, November 17, we received a report of an 11-year-old girl taken unwell in the Helensburgh area.

“She had been taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow on Sunday, November 16, and died on Monday, November 17.

“The death is being treated as unexplained and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”

Argyll and Bute Council said it was “devastated” to hear about the death of one of its pupils who attends a school in Helensburgh.

A spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this awful time.

“We are providing ongoing support to their family along with staff and pupils at the school.”