THE family of a 15-year-old girl who died after an alleged double stabbing in Hexham has paid tribute to her.

Shortly after 5.10pm on Friday (January 27), police were informed a teenage boy and girl had been injured in the Priestpopple area of the town centre.

Emergency services attended the scene near a local pizzeria where they found the boy and girl – aged 16 and 15 – had suffered serious injuries consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.

READ MORE: https://www.hexham-courant.co.ukholly-newton-15-murder-suspect-/news/23285225.community-mourns-

Holly Newton, of Haltwhistle, died in hospital as a result of her injuries. The boy remains in hospital in a stable condition.

“Holly was such a bright and bubbly girl who was so passionate about her family and many friends", her family has said. "She was a much-loved daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece and cousin.

“Holly was always a popular girl, who was loved by so many people – not just in Hexham – but all over the North East.

“Holly also loved dancing and was so talented – and a big part of her spare time was spent at classes and taking part in competitions up and down the country.

“She had her whole life ahead of her and we are still coming to terms with the fact that our beautiful and loving girl is no longer with us.

“Rest in peace to our baby girl – we love you so much and our lives will never be the same without you here.

"You touched so many hearts and you will be missed beyond words by all of your family and loved ones.

“As a family, we would like to thank everyone in the community for their support and kind words. We now respectfully ask that we are given the time and privacy to grieve as we process what has happened.”

A boy, aged 16, was arrested and later charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon.