The family of a teenager who died following an incident in the River Severn in Welshpool have paid tribute to a “loving and caring” girl. Holli Smallman died despite a multi-agency search at the River Severn in Welshpool, following reports of a missing person made at around 4.40pm on Friday.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed later that evening that a body was recovered at around 8pm, confirming on Monday that the person found was 15-year-old Holli. In a statement issued today (Wednesday, August 14) her family said: “We wish to express how heart-broken we are by the tragic passing of our loving and caring girl Holli. The overwhelming grief and heartache devastates us all.
“Holli was a beloved sister, daughter, granddaughter and was so well loved by all of her family, extended family and friends. “She was fun-loving and lived a life full of song and dancing, had an infectious joy for life and her positive and lovable cheeky nature made an impact on everyone she ever met. “Holli was a popular pupil at Welshpool High School and especially enjoyed art and being creative.
Holli formed a very strong bond with her group of friends and spent her time with them in or out of school. Holli had a talent, flair and passion for makeup and beauty and planned to train in that field after leaving school. “She was also a popular member of the Welshpool Army Cadets, having joined last year with her friendship group and took to it well.
Holli learned new life skills and she was maturing .