'We are so proud': Family's tribute to schoolgirl killed in Birmingham minibus crash
The family of a 14-year-old girl who died in a minibus crash on a school trip to Wolverhampton have paid tribute to a "beautiful daughter and twin sister".
Holly Brown died after a minibus carrying a group from John Taylor High School in Staffordshire collided with a bin lorry at around 9am on Friday.
The teenager, who was a dancer with the English Youth Ballet and had performed at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre, was one of a party of pupils and teachers travelling to Wolverhampton Art Gallery and Birmingham Botanical Gardens when the crash happened .
She was confirmed dead at the scene of the tragedy on the A38 in Castle Vale, Birmingham.
And now Holly's family have paid tribute to the passionate youngster, who beat 250 other dancers to win a starring role in Sleeping Beauty three years ago.
"We are so proud of what you achieved," her parents and twin sister Emma said.
"You grasped every opportunity that life presented to you, displaying so much passion, enthusiasm and determination in pursuit of your dreams.
"All this without forgetting to care about people, being there for others and having time for those that needed it.
"We will miss you so much but you will always be in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
"Love Mum, Dad and Emma xxx."
Twenty one students and three teachers from the academy school in Barton-under-Needwood - between Lichfield and Burton upon Trent - were onboard a 29-seater Bagnalls minicoach when the tragedy happened on the dual carriageway A38.
A second teenage girl was taken to hospital with minor injuries, while others - including the drivers of the minibus and the Birmingham City Council lorry - were treated and discharged at the roadside.
Nobody has been arrested, although police said both drivers were assisting their investigation. Officers are looking into whether all of the pupils were wearing seat-belts and have refused to be drawn on the potential cause of the crash.
Meanwhile John Taylor principal Mike Donoghue said in a letter to parents: "Our thoughts, at this very tragic and sad time, are with the family, their friends and the pupils and staff involved.
"I am sure that you will join everyone at John Taylor High School in supporting our community in every way you can."
Anyone who witnessed the collision and has not already spoken to police is asked to call 101 and ask for the Collision Investigation Unit.
