Tributes have been paid to a west Fife schoolgirl who died suddenly, just days before she was due to be a bridesmaid at her uncle”s wedding.
Ten-year-old Kelsey Henderson was a pupil at Lynburn Primary School, Dunfermline, but passed away on Tuesday, July 6.
Fife Council said fellow pupils and staff are “shocked” and “saddened” at the death, the causes of which are still being looked into.
It is understood that Kelsey was tested for meningitis and also suffered latterly from septicemia and pneumonia, prior to her death.
She took ill at her parents’ house last Tuesday and was then taken by ambulance to Queen Margaret Hospital, Dunfermline, where she was later pronounced dead.
It is understood that a post mortem is also looking at the possibility that Kelsey may have had leukaemia.
She was due to be the bridesmaid at the wedding of Richard Barr, her uncle, last Saturday.
Kelsey’s parents, Debbie Barr and Mark Henderson, are said to be devastated.
Anne Yarham, head teacher of Lynburn Primary School, said Kelsey’s death was “tragic news” for the school’s community.
“We are all shocked and saddened at the news and our thoughts are with Kelsey’s family and friends as they try to come to terms with their loss,” she told The Courier.
“Kelsey was an absolutely delightful youngster, full of life and full of energy, who participated fully in the life of the school.
“Right at the end of term Kelsey won our Reach For The Stars competition, and she was a true Lynburn star.
“When the children return to school after the summer break, we will hold a special assembly where we can come together to celebrate Kelsey’s life.”
Lyn Simpson, vice-chairwoman and secretary of Brucefield and Nethertown Community Council, also expressed her sympathies.
“I know Kelsey’s uncle and her grandparents it’s an absolute tragedy,” she said.
“I was aware that Kelsey was to be the bridesmaid at her uncle’s wedding. It is such a difficult time for the family.”
Jim Tolson, MSP for Dunfermline and West Fife, added, “My condolences go out to the family. It’s always tragic to lose such a young child and so suddenly.
“Hopefully the parents will take solace from friends and family at this time.”
Tributes were also paid on a social networking site, with one saying, “We will never forget you, princess, but for now you will be the sun in someone else’s sky.”
Kelsey’s funeral will take place next week.