A Colchester schoolgirl has died after being involved in a car accident while on holiday.

Jasamin Eslami, six, a pupil at St James' Primary School, Colchester, was visiting relatives in Iran with her mother and brother when they were involved in the accident.

A spokeswoman for the Diocese of Chelmsford said the family, of Barkstead Road, were driving to an Iranian airport to take a flight home.

She said: "They were involved in a collision. Jasamin suffered head injuries and lapsed into a coma from which she never recovered. Her mother was injured. Unfortunately I have no news of her brother.

"The school were told on Monday and they have prayed for her and her family."

Chairman of governors', Father Peter Walker, said everyone was saddened and upset.

He said: "We are obviously saddened and upset to hear of the tragic death of Jasamin and our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.

"We will be doing all we can to support all members of the school community."

A letter was sent home to parents informing them of the tragedy. Headteacher Elizabeth Taylor will be writing to Jasamin's family with the school's condolences.

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