An inquest was opened this morning into the death of a 13-year-old who died after being hit by a car in Dover.

During the short hearing at County Hall in Maidstone, coroner Katrina Hepburn said Mya Lawrence had died of a head injury after being struck by a car while crossing the A256 at Whitfield.

She died at the scene of the collision, which is being investigated by police, on October 15.

The inquest was adjourned until April 4, 2022, and will be held at Archbishop's Palace in Maidstone.

Earlier this week, Mya's family paid tribute to their "bright, beautiful daughter" who had a "sassy sense of humour and strong will".

They said the Dover Christ Church Academy pupil will remain in their hearts "forever".

They said she had planned to go into the caring profession so she could help others and enjoyed sports.

They also remembered the way Mya would wear sunglasses on her head, whatever the weather.

The statement from the family reads in full: "The family of Mya Lawrence would like to thank all of Mya’s friends, family, school and the local community for all the love and support shown to them following the loss of our beloved daughter.

"Mya was our bright, beautiful daughter, blessed with a sassy sense of humour and a strong will to challenge the boundaries of what was acceptable for a young girl to do.

"She was a caring and compassionate girl who would stand up for and try to help others of all ages.

"She had planned to work within the caring profession as an adult, to fulfil this need to help others.

"Mya remains loved and in our hearts forever."

"She loved her sport and was easily recognisable by everyone by her sunglasses, worn on the top of her head, whatever the weather.

"We know that everyone who knew Mya shares our pain, so we ask for privacy for our family her friends and the local community to allow us time to grieve in private.

"Mya remains loved and in our hearts forever."

A Go Fund Me page was set up in memory of Mya following her death by her aunty Paula Rose Hopkins.

More than £3,000 has been raised so far and will help family cover general costs, in addition to a possible memorial.

Last week, the principal of Dover Christ Church Academy Jamie MacLean described Mya as an “outstanding student” and a “vivacious young lady”.

Witnesses should call 01622 798 538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting SM/CF/116/21.

Read more: All the latest news from Dover