A 17-YEAR-OLD girl has died after being found hanged.

The young woman, named locally as Harriet Walsh, was found at about 11pm on Friday at her home in Maria Square, Belmont.

She was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital, where she later died.

A spokesman for Lancashire Constabulary said: “We were called by North West Ambulance Service at about 11pm on April 17 to the report that a woman aged 17 had been found hanged at an address in Maria Square, Belmont.

“She was taken to Bolton Hospital, where she later sadly died.”

There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances, and a file has been passed to the coroner.

A spokesman for North West Ambulance Service confirmed a 999 call was received at 11pm on April 17.

They added: “We sent two rapid response vehicles, an ambulance and a manager to an address in Belmont.

“The patient was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital.”

Harriet was a student at the animal academy at Myerscough College in Bilsborrow, seven miles north of Preston, at the time of her death. and before that studied at Turton High School between 2008 and 2013.

A spokesman for Myerscough College, which specialises in subjects such as animal care, equine studies, horticulture and landscaping, said: “Harriet was a valued member of our community and will be sadly missed.

"Her tragic death has come as a real shock to everyone at Myerscough.

“During her time at Myerscough College it was clear that she loved animals and had chosen to dedicate herself to study in this field.


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"Harriet knew a number of people across the college who grew to value her friendship.

“Our sincere sympathy and deepest condolences go out to Harriet’s family, friends and students.

"We will also be offering support and counselling to members of our college community who have been affected by the sad news.”

Sam Gorse, headteacher at Turton School, said: “This is a tragic loss and all of our thoughts are with Harriet’s friends and family at this time. 

"She will be remembered fondly by staff and students alike here at Turton.”

Halliwell teenager Connor Smyth met Harriet at Myerscough College last year and said the pair quickly became best friends.

He said: “She was a kind and caring person. She was always supportive of her friends, someone who would make you smile if you needed to talk to her. She made everyone laugh.”

The 18-year-old railway engineer said he saw Harriet upset a few times but that she never told him what was bothering her.

He added: “She had lots of friends, she was very popular. She loved animals, especially cats, and she wanted to look after animals as her job.”

Harriet's boyfriend, Carl Cunliffe, aged 20, said: "I loved her very much and she will always be in my heart.

"I am heartbroken by what has happened. RIP beautiful. I love you."

Harriet’s friend Naomii Herd wrote on Facebook: “RIP baby, you mean the world to me, you made me so happy it's going to be mad going from seeing you every day to not at all.

"I love you loads, don't ever forgot that, see you one day. Mc Hazza and Mc Nazza forever, Creamfields won't be the same without you.”

Abbie Clare added on Facebook: “We miss you so much Harriet... can’t believe you are gone... you were a great friend... and my deepest condolences go out to your family and friends... may you rest in peace and God bless.”

Harriet's family were too upset to comment.