Watchdogs have confirmed that they are now leading the investigation into the death of a 10-year-old Darlington schoolgirl who died when a mudslide struck during a school trip.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is now leading the probe into the death of Leah Harrison, 10; a year six pupil who lost her life on a mudslide on May 22.

Leah, who was a pupil at Mount Pleasant Primary School, was on a trip to Carlton Adventure Centre using a "popular" walking route when the incident happened.

(Image: NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE) North Yorkshire Police have been involved in the investigation but it has been confirmed today that HSE is now taking the lead.

A HSE spokesperson said: “After working closely with North Yorkshire Police we are now leading the investigation into the death of ten-year-old Leah Harrison on 22 May 2024.”

Following her death, the family issued a heartbreaking tribute to young Leah who had her heart set on being a Lioness.

They said: "The beautiful smile, the giddy laugh, the silly jokes. You will never be forgotten baby girl.

"You will achieve your dream and become a player for the Lionesses. Spread those wings. May you rest in paradise."

Chief Executive of the Lingfield Education Trust Nick Blackburn also issued a statement on behalf of the school, paying tribute to Leah, saying the trust was in a "state of shock".

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) Mr Blackburn said: “Leah had her heart set on being a Lioness. She was a friendly, lovely and bubbly pupil at the school who was well-loved by her friends and the school community.

“We have layers of support here at the school, we have an in-school counsellor who is available for all children today.

“We are also working with a specialist trauma counsellor for some of the pupils who were on the trip.”

Days later, hundreds of families including Leah’s schoolfriends gathered at the playpark near Cocker Beck in Darlington at 4pm on May 27 to release balloons in her memory.

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Colourful balloons floated away in the skies over Darlington in the emotional tribute.

Among them were balloons reading ‘10’, a reference to Leah’s age, and footballs for the wannabe England Lioness.

There were tears and cheers as they were released following a short countdown.