Former Thomas, Lord Audley student Alliyah Bell died at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

The Monkwick resident was rushed to hospital following a collision in Barrack Street, Colchester, near the corner with Challenge Way, at about 2.15am on Sunday, August 29.

Essex Police were called to the scene to reports a pedestrian had been hit by a Ford Kuga.

Alliyah was transferred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital for specialist care following the collision but sadly died from her injuries last Thursday.

Following the incident, her sister-in-law Megan Smith set up a fundraising page to raise money to support her parents Jo and Kirk.

Kind-hearted supporters have donated almost £4,000, which will now go towards giving the much-loved teenager the “best send off”.

Miss Smith said on the page: “Sadly on September 9 we had to say goodbye to our beautiful Alliyah, so all money donated will be put towards the best send off for her and her family.

“Fly high gorgeous girl, you will be deeply deeply missed by so many.”

Alliyah with niece Laila, five

Speaking to the Gazette before Alliyah’s death, Miss Smith said Alliyah was popular with everyone who knew her, adding: “She and her family are the nicest people I have ever met and they do not deserve this”.

The 17-year-old was due to start a beauty course at college this month before the collision.

Following her death, dozens of floral tributes to Alliyah have been laid in Barrack Street from friends, family and well-wishers.

A 34-year-old man from Colchester was arrested following the collision and has been released under investigation while police continue their inquiries.

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A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are continuing to carry out enquiries into the collision and what led up to it and need to speak to anyone who saw anything or has any CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage."

Witnesses should call 101 quoting reference incident 200 of August 29. You can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.essex.police.uk.

Donate at gofundme.com/f/for-beautiful-alliyah.