Family pay tribute to 'talented' Jessica Baker killed in coach crash on M53
The tragic death of a 15-year-old girl in a coach crash on Saturday has left a “massive void that will never be filled”, her family said in a heart-rending tribute.
Jessica Baker tragically passed away following the major collision on the northbound motorway in Wirral on Friday. A coach with over 50 school children - believed to be from West Kirby Grammar School and Calday Grange Grammar School - flipped over in the crash which also tragically killed the driver, Stephen Shrimpton.
In tribute to a “warm-hearted, wonderful” person, Jessica’s family have issued a statement through Merseyside Police - after yesterday releasing a heart-breaking photo of their daughter. “Jessica was a warm-hearted, wonderful daughter, granddaughter and niece, devoted sister and loyal friend. A talented climber, based at the Boardroom Climbing Centre academy where she helped coach younger climbers and competed around the country inspiring others,” the statement read.
“At the age of 15, just starting Year 11 at West Kirby Grammar School, where her focus was not just on academic work but also sports, representing the school at many events,” it continued. “Her untimely death has led to a massive void in our lives that will never be filled. She will be missed by many, from not only school but also the climbing community across the country.”
The driver had "health problems" according to his sister-in-law (PA)
Flowers were left near the fatal bus collision in Wirral (Liverpool Echo)Simeon Clarke, headteacher of West Kirby Grammar School - where Jessica studied - said it is “hard to find the words” to describe Jessica’s “tragic” death. He described her as a “dedicated friend” and an “unassuming, polite and conscientious student who exemplified the values of our school”.
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“Jessica was also a keen sportswoman, representing her house and the school in numerous competitions, and demonstrating an unwavering love of – and commitment to – rock climbing, where she had previously represented Wales in national competitions,” Mr Clarke continued. “Jessica will be greatly and sadly missed by her friends, teammates, classmates, and all at West Kirby Grammar School who had the pleasure and privilege to encounter her.”
“As we return to school this week, we will continue to work closely with her family and friends to ensure that we celebrate Jessica’s life in the most fitting way possible. These are difficult and challenging times, but I have always had and continue to have great belief in the strength of our community to support one another and pull together in times of need.”
Jessica studied at West Kirby Grammar School (Liverpool Echo)He added that the school is “extremely proud” in how the students and school community have responded, and that the school has put in place a “comprehensive programme of support for staff and students”.
The sister-in-law of driver Stephen Shrimpton yesterday said: “He’s sadly left behind my sister who’s now a widow in her early thirties, and unfortunately a single mum alongside his much loved two young children, only 8 and 4, who are going to grow up without their beloved father.”
An investigation into this incident is ongoing and officers are still appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage. Anyone with information about the collision is asked to call the Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747 or [email protected] or contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook quoting reference 23000944471.
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