TRIBUTES have been paid after a teenage girl with burn injuries was found dead in a village near Verwood on Monday night.

Paramedics rushed to save the 15-year-old, who attended Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne, after she was discovered outside Edmondsham shortly after 9.15pm.

Tragically, the girl died at the scene. An investigation has been launched into the circumstances of her death.

The head of QE, Martin McLeman, said: “We are devastated by the news of the death of a pupil from our school. “All our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends at this extremely sad time.

“We are working closely with Dorset County Council to offer counselling and support to the student’s friends at school, as well as other students and staff affected by this tragic event, and we will continue to offer our support over the weeks and months ahead.

“We are also being well supported by our chaplaincy team and we will continue to pray for the student’s family and all affected by this tragedy.”

A message written by the head has also been posted onto the school’s website.

“It is with deep regret that I write to advise you of the death of one of our Year 10 girls,” it reads.

“I have advised all Year 10 students at school this morning and they may need the support of their families when they return home this evening and over the coming weeks.”

Floral tributes have been left close to the girl’s home in the east Dorset village, while the Christmas lights have been switched off as residents mourn her death.

A neighbour in Edmondsham, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “She was a lovely young girl, very friendly, you could always have a chat with her. The whole village is very upset.”

A spokesperson from Dorset Police said: “Her death is being treated as unexplained and officers are investigating the circumstances.

“Next of kin and the coroner have been informed.

“All relevant multi-agency partners are involved in investigating the circumstances of this tragic death.”

Firefighters from Cranborne and an ambulance crew also attended on Monday evening.