TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Northumberland schoolgirl killed at a level crossing.

Katie Littlewood died when she was struck by a train in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, on Saturday. Police believe she may have been listening to music on an iPod at the time of her death.

The 15-year-old was born in Northumberland and lived at Stobswood for most of her life.

A British Transport Police spokeswoman yesterday said headphones had been found at the scene and will form a key part of their inquiry.

It may be that the teenager did not hear the train or notice the lights and alarms at the crossing.

Katie lived with her father Simon Littlewood, mother Ruth White and sisters Stephanie, 12, and Sarah, 17, in Northumberland in the 1990s and most of the last decade. In 2009 Dr White died of cancer. Soon afterwards, the three girls moved south to live with their aunt.

Tributes from friends and neighbours in the North East have flooded on to a Facebook tribute site after Katie’s death.

Andrea McTaggart, from Morpeth, wrote: “No words can say what we are all feeling.

“Our hearts are breaking and our love as always goes to Sarah & our little Steffi. Katie, you were one of three amazing girls that we had the pleasure to know well & miss more than ever. Sleep tight angel.”

Samuel Cooling wrote: “Rip Katie, at least you’re with your mum again now, you will be sorely missed.”