Schools to pay tribute to road tragedy girls

HELINA KOTRALOVA in her school uniform

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

PUPILS and staff at two secondary schools will pay tribute to the victims of the fatal New Year's Eve hit and run.

Helina Kotlarova (12) died at the scene of the tragedy in Ashton Road, Hathershaw, while her 11-year-old cousin Zaneta Krokova passed away on Monday.

A book of condolence will open tomorrow at Oasis Academy Oldham in Hollins which Zaneta attended. A special assembly will also be held at Helina's school, Collective Spirit in Chadderton.

Nigel Whittle, principal of Oasis Academy Oldham, said: "We are deeply saddened by the news of the tragic deaths of Zaneta, one of our first year students, and her cousin Helina. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends at this extremely distressing and difficult time.

"We are a very closely-knit school. As our students return this week following the Christmas break, I know that they will care for one another and that our staff will be available to offer the support and time necessary as we all come to terms with this awful loss.

"In the weeks to come, and with the agreement of the Krokova family, we will join as an academy to pay tribute to Zaneta."

The cousins were holding hands when they were hit by a dark blue Peugeot 807 at around 7.15pm on Saturday. The car was later abandoned in nearby Honeywell Lane.

A statement from Collective Spirit says: "We are the smallest of schools and we feel Helena's loss with immense sorrow. We offer our sincerest condolences to Helena's friends and family, in particular her parents.

"For many of us, our last memory of Helena was at our Christmas fair where her team won best stall whilst raising money for Save the Children. This is how we will remember this young lady.

"The school will hold a special assembly when our pupils return from the Christmas holidays and counselling will be available for students and staff."

Four men aged 59, 48, 38 and 18 remain in custody after being arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and continued to be questioned this morning.