The family of a schoolgirl who died in a fire in a house near Liverpool on Wednesday have paid tribute.

Layla Allen, 13, was pronounced dead at the scene following the fire on Kingsway in Prescot at around 11.42pm on Wednesday.

A man, a woman and five children escaped unharmed from the blaze in the rear bedroom of a terraced house.

Her family continue to be supported by specially trained officers, and a joint investigation between Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.

In a statement, the family said: “Layla was a shining light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was funny, charismatic, and so quick-witted – always ready with a joke or a clever remark that brought smiles to those around her.

“With an infectious energy and a heart full of love, she had a way of making every moment brighter.

“She was a true friend to so many, always bringing laughter and warmth wherever she went. She had a passion for TikTok, makeup, and drawing – expressing her creativity in ways that made her uniquely Layla.

“Layla was a typical, happy, and full-of-life 13-year-old, filled with dreams, laughter and love. She was cherished beyond words by her mum, dad, brothers, sisters and grandparents who adored her deeply. She touched the hearts of everyone she met and left a lasting impact on so many.

“We thank everyone for their kind words and flowers. As a family we ask for everyone to respect our privacy and leave us to grieve at this truly sad time.”

Read more from Sky News:
UK blast furnaces days from closure
Explainer: South Korea’s impeached president
UK set for hottest day of 2025 so far

Layla’s school, Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy in the neighbouring town of Whiston, also paid tribute in a letter telling parents of the sad news.

“Layla was a very special student who was full of spirit and brought happiness to all the people she met.

“She had a very big personality, and an even bigger heart – and her death will be felt deeply across the school.”

The letter added that students had been informed about Layla’s death and specialists were being brought in to provide support and counselling.

On Wednesday, Detective Inspector Steven O’Neill said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the young girl at this very sad time.

“A joint investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing and the girl’s family is being supported by specially trained officers.”