The heartbroken parents of a Cumbrian teenager have paid tribute to their “intelligent, social girl” who was loved by so many.

Karen Edgar, 16, of Sycamore Garth, Little Clifton, died on Saturday.

Police were called at around 11.30pm on Friday, following concern for her welfare.

The teenager was taken to the West Cumberland Hospital, in Whitehaven, but was pronounced dead a short time later.

In a moving statement, her parents Derek and Julie Edgar said: “We are devastated by Karen’s death. She was an intelligent and sociable girl, who was loved by so many people.

“Karen was excellent academically and wanted to pursue a career in medicine following her A-Level exams. She was also really looking forward to her school prom.

“We are overwhelmed by the amount of support we have received and the messages that have come in at such a difficult time for our family.

“We now need time and privacy to come to terms with our heartbreaking loss.”

Karen was a student at Stainburn School before it was turned into Workington Academy last year.

Her death has sent shockwaves through her peer group, devastating those who knew her. Messages have been posted on social network sites.

Mark Bedford, deputy headteacher at the school, paid tribute to the year 11 pupil.

He said: “We mourn the loss of Karen, a lovely girl.

“Our sincere condolences are with Karen’s family and friends and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“Karen was a dedicated student who always strove to do her best academically.

“She showed a passion for creative subjects, expressing herself vividly in her writing.

“Karen was well respected by both staff and students. She will be remembered as a polite student and as a loyal friend with a great sense of humour.

“Hers was a life with great potential and we feel her loss deeply.”

The death is not believed to be suspicious and the coroner has been informed.