Family tribute to ‘star shining bright’ girl killed in lorry crash

A family has paid a heartfelt tribute to a teenage girl who died in a collision with a lorry, calling her "a star in every sense of the word". Georgia Scarff, 16, died following the collision on the A14 in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, at around 1.30am on April 15. She was preparing to sit her GCSEs before her death.

Georgia belonged to the Bury St Edmunds' U14 hockey team as a goalkeeper, who were crowned as national champions in 2022. Georgia's family has asked Suffolk Constabulary to issue their tribute on their behalf: "We have been left devastated by the loss of our beloved Georgia. Georgia was a star in every sense of the word, shining bright with the promise of a future filled with remarkable achievements and profound impact.

"She was a keen sportsperson, excelling in hockey, tchoukball, fitness training and more recently rugby. She had achieved both her Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Awards and was already well into her Gold Award. "Georgia was about to sit her GCSEs and was expected to do well and continue with A levels.

She had an enquiring mind and a ready smile, a dry wit and maturity beyond her years. "Georgia had so much potential and a bright future. She was a loyal and generous friend and was admired for her tenacity and courage.

Whilst she downplayed her successes, we were hugely proud of all her achievements. "We know how missed she will be by all that knew her as a friend, peer, teammate, as her teacher or coach and especially by her family. "She was a star shining bright and we were blessed to have her for the short time we held her close, but we know she will always be with us in spirit."

A formal inquest into Georgia's death is due to be held at a later date.