Nicole Fegan, 12, dies in Newry beach buggy crash

A 12-year-old girl who died after a crash between a beach buggy and a pick-up truck near Newry, County Down, has been described as "a special girl".

Nicole Fegan was a passenger on the beach buggy which crashed on the Flagstaff Road on Saturday afternoon.

A 14-year-old girl, who was driving the beach buggy, is in hospital with a broken leg.

A book of condolence has been opened in Mayobridge, outside Newry, for Nicole.

She was a Year 8 pupil at Our Lady's Grammar School in Newry.

Principal Fiona McAlinden said the entire school was "saddened and shocked" by Nicole's tragic death.

"Nicole was a very well-loved and valued pupil and she will be much missed by the staff and her many friends across the school community," she said.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to her parents, brothers, family and friends."

In a Facebook post, her former school, St Patrick's Primary and Nursery School in Mayobridge, said they were "heartbroken" to learn of her sudden death.

"Nicole was such a special girl," they said.

"We have memories of her kindness and her willingness to contribute to the life of the school through her musical ability, her sporting talents, her desire to do her best at all times and her beautiful smile.

"We offer our heartfelt condolences to her loving family."

The buggy collided with the truck at about 14:50 GMT on Saturday.

SDLP councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick told BBC News NI that Nicole was "a great wee community girl" who was well-known in the area.

"She was a quiet, well-spoken, gentle child who brightened a room," she said.

"She was into music and sport, she was unassuming but had a lovely, kind heart."

The driver of the pick-up truck was not injured.

The Northern Ireland air ambulance attended the scene of the collision.

Police have appealed for information.