A Colchester school has paid tribute to a teenage pupil who died after an epileptic fit.

Elizabeth Haher, 13, of St Paul's Road, Colchester, suffered a seizure while in the bath on December 29.

St Benedict's College pupil Elizabeth was enthusiastic and made a big impact on everyone at the school, said headteacher Alan Whelan.

"Our thoughts go out to Elizabeth's family at this time," he said.

Elizabeth's mother Sue works as a mid-day assistant at the school, and Elizabeth's brother, Christopher, was due to interviewed for a place at the school. Her father, Richard, worked in Parliament for many years.

Mr Whelan said although she was quiet, Elizabeth made a big impact on everyone at the school and he had fond memories of her.

Because of her enthusiasm in the school's mock European elections she was chosen as one of a dozen students to visit Westminster in July as a guest of Colchester MP Bob Russell .

Mr Whelan said he was grateful to the school's chaplaincy team and staff for the support they had given the Haher family over the holiday period.

Elizabeth's Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday at Priory Street, where Elizabeth was an altar server.

In due course the school plans to make its own arrangements to mark her memory.

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