Farringdon Academy pays tribute to "much loved and popular" little Isla after five-year-old's tragic death

Little Isla Wilkinson, a Farringdon Primary School pupil, was rushed into hospital earlier this week after falling ill at her home.

The five-year-old, who came down with a cough, temperature and sickness, tragically suffered brain damage and was given only hours to live after her heart stopped for around 20 minutes.

She sadly lost her life on Friday, December 6 after spending a few days in Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary in the care of staff and close family.

The news came as a shock to many on Friday and Farringdon’s Year One school class returned on Monday, December 9 without “popular” Isla.

Mrs Claire McDermott, Headteacher at Farringdon Academy, has paid tribute on behalf of the school.

She said: “The school received the very sad news over the weekend that one of our Year 1 pupils, Isla Wilkinson had passed away.

“The thoughts of everyone at Farringdon Academy go out to her family at this difficult time.

“Isla was a much loved and popular part of our school community, and she will be greatly missed.

“We are of course, providing our support to her family, class and school friends as we all come to terms with this upsetting news.”

Hundreds of Echo readers have also shared their tributes and, as the cause of her death is being investigated, Isla’s family have been coming up with ideas on how to remember the 5-year-old.

A Go Fund Me Page was set up by her family members when Isla became ill to help Alex Williams, Isla's mum, organise a send-off for her “beautiful princess.”

Additional funds are set to be donated to The Sick Children's Trust.

Marcia Hogan-Williams, Isla's aunt, told the Echo: “It’s such a weight off Alex’s shoulders in organising the funeral and giving back.

“She is so grateful for everyone’s support. It has really kept her going.”

This page has now raised over £15,000. You can donate by searching ‘Little Isla’ on Go Fund Me.