THE grandmother of a 14-year-old girl who died after a sports lesson has thanked the staff at the school who tried to save her.

Kiera Beagle died in hospital yesterday after taking ill following a sports lesson at Calderhead High School in Shotts.

Today, her grandmother Elaine Black said: "Our family would like to pass on our thanks to everyone at the school, especially to the staff who gave our lovely Kiera a fighting chance.

"We would also like to thank the police, ambulance and hospital staff for their professionalism and kind support.

"Our thoughts are with Kiera's many friends; we know how sad they will be at this devastating news."

Headteacher John Robertson said Kiera would be remembered "very fondly" and said she was a popular and valued member of the school.

In a statement issued through North Lanarkshire council, he said: "All our thoughts and sympathy go out to her family and friends.

“Kiera will be remembered very fondly by pupils and staff. She made a highly positive contribution to the school, and was doing well in all her subjects. Kiera especially liked writing and illustrating books.

“She was a popular and valued member of our school community, especially among her group of close friends.

“We will provide our young people at Calderhead with our full support to help them this most difficult time.”

The school has opened a book of condolences for the second year student.