Tributes were paid today to a “bright, kind and caring” girl who died after being rescued from a North Yorkshire river.
Palwasha Akbar, 13, was pulled from the River Wharfe near Burnsall at around 6.30pm on Sunday 31 May.
She was airlifted to hospital but despite the efforts of the public at the scene and medical staff she died.
Today the family of Palwasha, from Bradford, paid tribute to her.
“Palwasha was a bright, kind, and caring young girl whose tragic passing has left her family, friends, and community heartbroken,” they said.
“She was a hardworking student with a love of learning and a cheerful personality that brought joy to everyone around her.
“Palwasha loved reading and could often be found enjoying a good book. She also loved spending time with her friends, making memories, sharing laughter, and bringing happiness wherever she went.
“She enjoyed dressing up, doing her hair, and expressing her vibrant personality. Her warm smile, kind heart, and caring nature made her loved by all who knew her.
“Palwahsa was a loving daughter, sister, and friend who had a bright future ahead of her. She was full of life, dreams, and ambition, and she touched the lives of so many people despite her young age.”
The family said her loss “left an immeasurable void in our lives. We miss her deeply and are struggling to come to terms with losing such a precious and cherished member of their family.
“Palwasha will be remembered for her kindness, her beautiful spirit, her devotion to her friends and family, and the happiness she brought to those around her.
Burnsall, North Yorkshire
“Her life was taken far too soon, but her memory will live on forever in the hearts of everyone who loved her.
“We would like to thank everyone for their support, prayers, and kindness during this incredibly difficult time and respectfully ask for privacy as we grieve our devastating loss.”
Palwasha’s family have set up a fundraising page to honour Palwasha’s memory and support charitable causes in her name.
The family are grateful for the kindness, generosity, prayers, and support they have received from the community during this incredibly difficult time.
