Schoolgirl dies after collapsing

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A five-year-old girl has died after collapsing in a school playground.

Staff at Woodland Primary School in Heywood, Greater Manchester, gave first aid to Alex Mallinson, but she died later in Fairfield Hospital.

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances. It is thought Alex may have suffered a brain haemorrhage.

Charles Sutcliffe, head teacher at the school, said Alex had "touched the hearts of all at Woodland and will be sadly missed".

'Terrible tragedy'

Counselling and support was offered to children, their families and staff at the school, following the death on Friday.

Mr Sutcliffe said: "Alex was a very caring and thoughtful little girl who enjoyed looking after her friends.

"She always gave of her best in everything she did. Our thoughts are with her family at this sad time."

A spokesman for Rochdale Council said it was waiting for the coroner's report.

He said Alex's death was a "terrible tragedy".