The family of a 13-year-old girl who died after being rescued from the River Wharfe near Burnsall have paid tribute to their "bright, kind, and caring" daughter.
Palwasha Akbar tragically died after an incident at the river on Sunday 31st May.
In a statement released through North Yorkshire Police, her family described the devastating impact of her loss and remembered her as a hardworking student with a love of learning.
They said:
"Palwasha was a bright, kind, and caring young girl whose tragic passing has left her family, friends, and community heartbroken.
"She was a hardworking student with a love of learning and a cheerful personality that brought joy to everyone around her.
"Palwasha loved reading and could often be found enjoying a good book. She also loved spending time with her friends, making memories, sharing laughter, and bringing happiness wherever she went.
"She enjoyed dressing up, doing her hair, and expressing her vibrant personality. Her warm smile, kind heart, and caring nature made her loved by all who knew her."
They added:
"Palwahsa was a loving daughter, sister, and friend who had a bright future ahead of her. She was full of life, dreams, and ambition, and she touched the lives of so many people despite her young age.
"The tragic loss of Palwasha following the drowning incident in the River Wharfe at Burnsall has left an immeasurable void in our lives. We miss her deeply and are struggling to come to terms with losing such a precious and cherished member of their family.
"Palwasha will be remembered for her kindness, her beautiful spirit, her devotion to her friends and family, and the happiness she brought to those around her. Her life was taken far too soon, but her memory will live on forever in the hearts of everyone who loved her.
"We would like to thank everyone for their support, prayers, and kindness during this incredibly difficult time and respectfully ask for privacy as we grieve our devastating loss."
Palwasha's family have also set up a fundraising page to honour her memory and support charitable causes in her name.
Emergency services were called to the River Wharfe near Burnsall at around 6.30pm on Sunday 31st May after reports that a 13-year-old girl had gone missing in the water.
A short time later, she was rescued from the river and taken to hospital by air ambulance.
Despite the efforts of members of the public and medical staff at the scene and in hospital, she sadly died.
North Yorkshire Police thanked those who assisted during the incident and said their thoughts remain with Palwasha's family.
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