Tears for bus death girl

The car ploughed into a garden

The family of a Liverpool schoolgirl who was killed when she was hit by a car as she waited at a bus stop have paid tribute to their daughter.

Laura Swadkins, 15, who was a pupil at Holly Lodge Girls school, died after the accident on Eaton Road on Monday afternoon.

Her family said she was a much loved daughter and sister - and added they are "absolutely devastated" by her death.

Staff at Holly Lodge Girls School have also paid tribute to Laura.

Laura was struck by a speeding car as she made her way home from school in West Derby, shortly after 1600 BST on Monday.

She later died from her injuries.

Man held

The 24 year-old driver, who received minor injuries, has been arrested and will be questioned in connection with the death of the schoolgirl.

It is known he was already wanted by Lancashire Police in relation to another offence.

Flowers have been left at the scene

Head of year at the school, Bridget Hitchens, said Laura was a "bright, cheerful and incredibly loyal" pupil with a bright future.

Speaking of the reaction of pupils at the school to the news of their friend's death, Ms Hitchens said: "There was just silence for about an hour.

"Then everyone was crying and trying to comfort each other.

"Now it is just shock. I don't think anyone can believe it has happened."

Pupils at the school are receiving counselling.

Residents living near the scene of the accident are now calling for the introduction of traffic calming measures, to slow cars down and prevent a similar tragedy happening again.