Girl, 10, died from head injuries after BMW smashed through fence on to pitch as she played football, inquest told

A SCHOOLGIRL died from head injuries after she was struck by a car while playing football, an inquest heard.

Poppy Atkinson, ten, was taking part in a training session at Kendal Rugby Club in Cumbria when the horror unfolded.

An inquest heard today how the youngster was declared dead by paramedics at the scene shortly after the collision.

A post-mortem was later carried out with a provisional cause of death given as head injuries.

The promising young footballer's parents, Ben and Clare did not attend the brief hearing at Cumbria Coroner's Court.

Kirsty Gomersal, acting senior coroner for Cumbria, passed her “deepest condolences” on to the family.

She adjourned the inquest until a date to be fixed while a police investigation continues.

The tragedy unfolded on March 5 after a black BMW i4 crashed through a perimeter fence separating the pitches at the sport club.

An eight-year-old girl was also injured in the horror crash.

A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but has been released under investigation.

Cumbria Constabulary previously said the collision was not thought to be a deliberate act.

Football-mad Poppy played for Morecambe Girls and Kendal United's U12 girls team, who described her as “our much loved player”.

Tributes also flooded in from Lionessess Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone.

She dreamed of one day playing for Man Utd and idolised players Ella and Kobbie Mainoo.

The club said: “On behalf of Ella, Kobbie and everyone at Manchester United, we send our heartfelt condolences to Poppy's family and friends for their devastating loss.

“Rest in peace Poppy.”

Poppy was laid to rest yesterday in an emotional service in Kendal Parish Church.

Her coffin featured a poignant motif of Old Trafford painted in a field of poppies.

Poppy's devastated family previously said: “Poppy was the focal point of our lives, everything for us revolved around Poppy’s love for football.

“Poppy touched so many lives, it was easy to see why, herenergy, character, spirit and passion for football was infectious and touched huge numbers of people.

“Poppy was 100% determined to be a professional footballer. Many who know her, and who know her determination to improve and win, had no doubt she would achieve her goal to one day to play for Manchester United.

“Poppy was sister to seven-year-old Edward. Edward worshipped the ground Poppy walked on, he only ever wanted to be like her. Poppy would coach and support Edward with his football, it was so beautiful to see.

“The hole in our lives and so many around us that Poppy leaves is enormous, we will never be whole again.

“This world has lost a spirit like no other, she was a force of nature. She was so special, she was too good for this world.”;