The family of a 10-year-old girl who died following a crash in Kendal have paid tribute to her life.

At around 4:58pm on Wednesday, march 5, police and emergency services were called following a report of a crash involving a car and two children. 

The incident occurred on a pitch at Kendal Rugby Union Football Club on Shap Road.

One of the children involved in the crash died and a second was treated for their injuries. 

Police have confirmed the child who died was ten-year-old Poppy Atkinson, from Kendal. 

Specialist officers are continuing to support her family.

Poppy’s family have paid tribute to the little girl saying her loss has meant they will “never be whole again”.

Paying tribute to her life, Poppy’s family said: “Poppy was the focal point of our lives, everything for us revolved around Poppy’s love for football. Poppy touched so many lives, it was easy to see why, her energy, character, spirit and passion for football was infectious and touched huge numbers of people.

“Poppy was 100% determined to be a professional footballer. Many who know her, and who know her determination to improve and win, had no doubt she would achieve her goal to one day to play for Manchester United.

“Poppy idolised Ella Toone, Georgia Stanway, Mainoo and Messi to name a few. Poppy was a small, petite and beautiful 10-year-old, yet she played up an age group and proudly represented the Kendal United and county U-12 teams.

“Poppy earned her place through her determination and her technical mastery on the pitch, her skill was envied by most that she played with and against.

“Poppy was sister to 7-year-old Edward. Edward worshipped the ground Poppy walked on, he only ever wanted to be like her. Poppy would coach and support Edward with his football, it was so beautiful to see.

“The hole in our lives and so many around us that Poppy leaves is enormous, we will never be whole again. This world has lost a spirit like no other, she was a force of nature. She was so special, she was too good for this world.”

The second child, an eight-year-old girl from Kendal, was taken to hospital for treatment. Her injuries are not life-threatening.

The car involved was a black BMW i40.

A 40-year-old man, from Lancaster, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. 

He remains in police custody.

Police have said there is “no indication to suggest that this incident was a deliberate act”, at this time.