TRIBUTES have been paid to a 10-year-old girl who died in hospital from her injuries after being struck by a car.

Jessica Smith-Bellem, who lived in Canterbury, was in collision with a silver Toyota Yaris on the Toucan crossing in Military Road, Canterbury, on Wednesday, September 27 at about 7.30pm.

In a statement issued through Kent Police, Jessica's mother, Rebbecca, said: "She captivated everyone’s hearts. She was a bright, beautiful, happy young girl, who loved her dancing and singing."

The statement was also issued on behalf of Jessica's stepfather, Gareth, and brothers Simon and Harry.

It went on: "She was a popular girl with lots of friends and was a great sister to Simon and baby Harry. She will be missed by everyone that knew her. At least now she is at peace and being looked after by her nanny. Lots of love."

In another statement Jessica's father, Sammy, said: "Jessica was always very independent, caring, loving and very happy. She had so much energy and life that anyone who watched her singing and dancing could see she had star talent.

"I am so proud of Jessica. She was very clever and wanted to to be a lawyer.

"Her liver and kidneys have been donated in hope someone else will get a chance of life and having a little piece of Jessica’s personality. Her spirit will live on all around us and bring joy."

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.