TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a teenage girl who died suddenly on Mother’s Day.

Rachael Kiely-Cohen, 18, of Brecon Close, Pitsea, collapsed at about 1am on Sunday, just hours after coming home from work at Pizza Hut, in Basildon.

Her devastated family and friends have been left heartbroken and shocked as the cause of her death is still unknown.

Rachael was studying for a childcare qualification at South Essex College, in Luker Road, Southend.

College friends turned to Twitter and Facebook to share messages of condolence for the teenager who was described as an “amazing girl”.

Her boyfriend, Nathan Slater, posted simply “I love you” on her Twitter profile.

Rachael’s family have now set upawebsite in her honour asking well-wishers to donate money to Cancer Research UK in her memory, with more £127 donated so far.

Angela O’Donoghue, principal and chief executive of South Essex College said: “The death of any young person is a huge shock and it’s been a massive shock to staff, fellow students and the many friends and people who knew Rachael here at the college.

“They are working together through this difficult time and we have offered help and counselling to students.

“Class mates are opening a book of condolence in her memory and, having spoken to her tutor, it’s clear Rachael will be remembered as someone who was hardworking, dedicated, always nice and very caring. Her family and friends are in our thoughts at this difficult time.”

Rachael was selected as a princess for Basildon and Pitsea Carnival for two years running aged 13 and 14.

Nina Wise, from the carnival committee, said: “We as a committee would like to pass on our thoughts to the family and friends of Rachael who sadly passed away so young.

“Rachael was a beautiful, outgoing young lady who made some truly amazing friends in her time at carnival.

She was selected as princess for Basildon and Pitsea carnival for the year of 2009/2010 in which she had so much fun.

“Rachael loved carnival very much and choose to re enter the following year and was selected a princess 2010/2011.

“She always wore a perfect big smile and will be missed by so many friends and family.”

An inquest into her death will be held.

To donate visit http:// donateinmemory.cancer researchuk.org/0005062