British teenager, 16, dead after 'terrible accident' on family holiday
A British teenager who had her 'whole life ahead of her' has tragically passed away following an accident on a family holiday.
Abbie Lainton, from Swindon, was celebrating the summer holidays with her family in the Dominican Republic, having completed her GCSE's earlier in the summer.
However, her family and friends have been left heartbroken after the 16-year-old lost her life on 30 July, with her siblings also badly injured in the incident.
A GoFundMe page has since been set up to support her family in their time of incredible grief, with close friend Becky Jamieson paying tribute after the family's 'unimaginable loss'.
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Becky wrote: “Abbie had her whole life ahead of her. She should have been enjoying the summer with her friends and looking forward to receiving her GCSE results.
“She was so loved by her family, friends and everyone who knew her. For Abbie, forever 16, forever loved and never forgotten.”
The GoFundMe page is already closing in on its £10,000 target, with over £8,000 raised at the time of writing, although the details of Abbie's fatal accident still remain unclear.
Her former school Tanwood School for Performing Arts has also paid tribute to the keen dancer, sharing their 'complete shock' at the news.
A spokesperson said: “Abbie joined Tanwood as a dinky dot and was part of an exceptional group of dancers who formed strong friendships which spilled over to the audience when they performed together.
“She always performed with a huge smile, and those beautiful feet.
“We are all in complete shock at this heartbreaking news and send so much love and support to her family and friends at this unimaginable time.
“You will always be in our hearts.”
Abbie was also a member of the Swindon Lightning Cheerleading club and took part in competitions across the world, and they have been left similarly 'heartbroken' by this shocking update.
A spokesperson for the club said: “There are simply no words that feel enough.
“Abbie was a much-loved member of our Swindon Lightning family.
“Her kindness, infectious smile, unwavering encouragement and love for cheerleading touched the lives of so many athletes, coaches and families over the years.
“She brought so much light to our gym, and her loss has left us all heartbroken.
“Our thoughts, love and deepest condolences are with Abbie’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time.”
Anyone wanting to contribute to the appeal can click here.
LADbible group has contacted the Foreign Office for comment.
James Moorhouse