EXCLUSIVE
PUPILS were this week mourning the death of a "popular" local schoolgirl who tragically died in mysterious circumstances after being found collapsed at a house in Macclesfield.
Kayleigh Marland, a 15-year-old pupil at All Hallows Catholic High School on Brooklands Avenue, was rushed to Macclesfield Hospital last Tuesday (June 7) but lost her fight for life at the North Staffordshire Hospital two days later.
As the Macclesfield Express went to press, a cause of death had not yet been identified, pending the results of further tests.
Kayleigh's schoolchums were said to be devastated by their friend's death and were receiving counselling.
Richard Weremczyk, headteacher at All Hallows, said: "We have been shocked by the news of Kayleigh's death and greatly saddened as a school community. Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends.
"Kayleigh was a popular member of the school with lots of friends and has spent many happy times with us. She was a bright and lively girl with a great sense of humour.
"Most of all, she was noted for her straightness and honesty - and a very strong sense of justice. We will be holding a special prayer service in school for Kayleigh. She will be very greatly missed."
A small group of Kayleigh's friends will be receiving counselling from members of Cheshire County Council's critical incident team.
A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: "Just after 11am on Tuesday, June 7, police and paramedics were called to an address in Macclesfield.
"A 15-year-old girl was found collapsed and taken to Macclesfield District General Hospital and then transferred to North Staffordshire Hospital where she sadly died on Thursday, June 9."
A post mortem examination was expected to take place on Monday, June 13, and an inquest into Kayleigh's death was due to be opened.
The spokesman added: "The Specialist Investigation Unit are making inquiries regarding the circumstances surrounding the death.
"At this stage we do not believe that the death is suspicious."
