Train tragedy: Girl dies trying to save pet dog

A SCHOOLGIRL died after she was hit by a train while trying to rescue her dog from the tracks near Leeds.

Sixteen-year-old Natasha Elliott was with two teenage friends – one believed to be her boyfriend – when the dog ran onto the tracks close to Morley station.

She was taken to Leeds General Infirmary but died two hours after the accident. The dog, believed to be a German shepherd called Zeus, was not injured.

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The incident happened at 6.45pm on Sunday at a foot crossing not far from where Natasha lived with her father Wayne. A neighbour said Natasha's mother died some years ago.

A spokeswoman for British Transport Police said: "Natasha was believed to have been trying to retrieve her dog from the tracks when she was struck by the 17.52 York to Blackpool North Northern Rail service.

"The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be now prepared for the coroner. Our thoughts are with Natasha's family and friends at this difficult time."

Last night Natasha was described as a "wonderful person with a cheeky smile" by John Townsley, headteacher at Morley High School where she was a pupil.

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"Natasha was a much-loved and admired member of the school, " he said. "She was looking forward to going to sixth form and had a fantastic life in front of her. Her death is a profound loss to the community and we will all miss her immensely."

Friends paid their own tributes to Natasha on the Gone Too Soon website.

Mandy Hemsley wrote: "Another Morley teenager lost far too young. Your loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers."

Danie Bambrook, a close friend, said: "You're a lovely girl and you will be truly missed by everyone, especially our family. RIP beautiful. Love you."

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Last night over 30 bunches of flowers had been left at the scene, along with dozens of packets of Quavers crisps.

One friend said: "They were her favourite food. We thought it was a fitting tribute to leave some here for her."

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