Tributes paid to 'loving' four-year-old Poppy Widdison

A FAMILY friend of "sweet" and "loving" Poppy Widdison has told of his shock over her death.

The four-year-old Edward Heneage Primary Academy pupil died in the early hours of Monday, at Sheffield Children's Hospital, from serious injuries.

As reported, she was transferred there from Grimsby hospital, where she was first taken, at about 10am on Sunday. Medical staff there alerted the police to her condition.

The family friend, who did not wish to be named, told of his shock at her death, but felt compelled to talk "warmly" of her.

He said: "Poppy was such a sweet little girl and just being around her made me and everyone else feel special.

"She was wary of people, but when they got to know her she was very loving and I felt really privileged to have been trusted by her.

"I felt very protective over her and I am very shocked that she has died – now I just need to know how."

Another friend, who also wanted to remain anonymous, said: "Poppy touched the lives of every single person who met her.

"She was a mummy's girl, but was never upset – the little things in life made her so happy.

"She was such a humble little girl and didn't demand anything."

Details of a post mortem examination are due to be released today, and Grimsby Coroner Paul Kelly is expected to open and adjourn a hearing at Cleethorpes Town Hall.

A Humberside Police spokeswoman said: "The exact circumstances into her death are still being investigated by detectives and at this time it remains unexplained."

A 34-year-old woman and a 36-year-old man, who were arrested in connection with the incident on Sunday, both remain in police custody this morning.

An application, heard yesterday, to extend custody until later today was granted at Grimsby and Cleethorpes Magistrates' Court.

Police officers continue to guard two properties – one in Ladysmith Road, where Poppy formerly lived, and a flat in Oliver Court.

Neighbours and friends left cuddly toys, messages of sympathy, balloons and flowers outside the property in Ladysmith Road yesterday.

One message read: "A gorgeous little girl. Rest in Peace Princess."

Another said: "You can shed tears that they have gone or you can smile because they have lived. Love from us all."

And a tribute sent to the Grimsby Telegraph read: "It's at times like this when I thank my lucky stars that I can hold my daughter tight, tell her I love her and keep her safe and happy."

A resident of Ladysmith Road, who did not wish to be named, said: "We are deeply saddened.

"She was a beautiful little girl and we all have fond memories of her living near to us. She will always be in our hearts."

Poppy's family are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.