School joins tributes for young Exeter girl
An Exeter school has joined in paying tribute to the memory of a 12-year-old girl who died after falling from a wall at the Phoenix Youth centre in Burnthouse Lane.
The girl, named as Nicole Hartup by police, is thought to have fallen from the wall whilst watching a football game with friends on Friday evening (23 May).
Despite immediate care from Staff from the Youth centre and nearby sports centre, Nicole sadly died at Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital later that night.
Isca college of Media Arts, where Nicole was a year seven student will hold a memorial assembly for Nicole next week and is preparing to provide counselling to its students affected by Nicole’s death.
Devon’s Youth Service is also providing counselling for anyone affected by the tragic incident.
In a message on the college’s website headteacher Bevely Martin says: “It is with great sadness that we mourn the death of Nicole Hartup following a tragic accident on Friday 23rd May.
“Nicole was a popular girl, an active Year 7 netball player and vibrant member of Maia house.
“The accident happened at the Phoenix Youth Centre in Burnthouse Lane and was witnessed by her friends, counselling opportunities are now being offered this week by The Youth Service for anyone affected by Nicole's untimely death.
“There will be a Year 7 memorial assembly for Nicole on Monday 2nd June and trained staff will be on hand to counsel any students requiring support.
“Opportunities for all students to share their memories and express their condolences will be on offer in school. It is our intention to present the Book of Condolence to Nicole's family to let them know the strength of feeling for their daughter.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Nicole's family at this distressing time.”
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and the cause of the death is yet to be established but police are not treating it as suspicious at this time.
Officers are speaking to a number of children and potential witnesses as part of the investigation and appealing for anyone who may have information to contact police.
Detective Sergeant Gary Matthews said: “I believe there were a lot of people in the area at the time of this very sad incident. I would ask anyone who witnessed the incident, or the events before and after, to please contact the police.
“The police are continuing to work closely with Nicole’s mum Wendy and her family to provide emotional support through this difficult time. Wendy wishes to pass on her sincere thanks to everyone who came to the aid of her daughter and looked after her, as well as the ambulance staff, hospital and police for their support.
“She reserved special thanks to those who comforted Nicole and gave CPR in an attempt to resuscitate her.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to assist with the investigation is asked to telephone police on 101, quoting enquiry number EN/136241/14.
