The head teacher of the school attended by Savannah Bentham has paid tribute to a girl who ‘had a smile for everyone’.
Ten-year-old Savannah died after being bitten by her family’s dog last Friday.
Rachel Wells, head of West Heslerton Church of England Primary School near Malton, said: “We have lost a little girl who was only ten years old and who came to school every day with a smile for everyone and lots of lively chatter.
“Savannah was a model student who loved learning and was a friend to everyone.
“Her family are in our thoughts and prayers, and we will support the school and wider community in any way we can.
“Everyone needs time to try and process what’s happened so on behalf of the school community we ask for time and peace so that we can remember a little girl who was full of joy.
“We need to support our students, staff and the wider community to come to terms with losing our friend.”
Savannah’s devastated family said yesterday they were “utterly shocked and devastated” by her death.
Police are trying to find out more about the behaviour of the dog to help explain why it attacked the girl.