A 13-year-old girl killed while crossing a road in the dark was hugely popular, according to her headteacher.

Principal of Dover Christ Church Academy Jamie MacLean also described Mya Lawrence as an "outstanding student" and a "vivacious young lady".

He said the Year 9 pupil was a reading ambassador, giving up her free time to help younger students improve their reading.

Despite being half term, he opened the school gates this morning to allow her peers to pay tribute.

They walked with their messages and tributes to her nearby home, where they were placed down.

Speaking to KentOnline, Mr MacLean said: "Mya was a wonderful young lady.

"She was a keen sports woman and a diligent student, but above all else she was kind and generous.

"She gave her time freely to support younger students with their reading and her goal in life was to have a career where she would help people.

"Mya has left a significant hole in our school community, she will be truly missed by all who loved her."

Mr MacLean said around 100 students also held a vigil in a park this weekend.

Floral tributes have also been left close to the spot where the 13-year-old girl was killed crossing a busy road.

A hand-written note left on Whitfield Hill near Dover in memory of Mya reads "you were taken too soon".

The tragic accident happened on the A256 at around 7.40pm on Friday when she was struck by a blue Vauxhall Astra while attempting to cross the carriageway close to the Whitfield roundabout.

She was pronounced dead at the scene and her next of kin have been informed.

The driver of the vehicle involved stopped at the scene, but police said no arrests were made.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit would like to speak to anyone who saw the collision or has dashcam footage which might assist their inquiries."

Witnesses should call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798 538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting SM/CF/116/21

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