Tributes paid to ‘beautiful and talented’ Oak student

FAMILY and friends have paid tribute to ‘beautiful and talented’ teenager Chloe Gilbert, who died suddenly on Sunday 5th March from a suspected allergic reaction.

Tributes have been pouring in for the popular 15 year-old Melksham Oak student Chloe, who collapsed and died at Southgate shopping centre, Bath, from what her family have said they believe to be an allergic reaction to something she ate. In a statement released by the police, Chloe’s family said, “Chloe Gilbert, our beautiful and talented daughter was suddenly taken from us on Sunday 5th March.

“Our whole family and so many of Chloe’s friends have been left devastated at this sudden and tragic event.

“Chloe was diagnosed from an early age with an allergy to dairy products. The cause of Chloe’s death has yet to be ascertained, however we believe it may have been as a result to something Chloe had eaten. We urge anyone who has an allergy to seek immediate medical assistance if they believe they are suffering any form of reaction.”

Students at Melksham Oak School are being supported by staff with a school counsellor available for those who need support. A book of condolence has also been opened for students and staff to pay tribute to Chloe. In a letter on the school’s website, headteacher Stephen Clark said, “Our whole school is devastated by the tragic loss of Chloe.

“One of the first things that you noticed when you met Chloe was her smile, she had a huge smile. It was infectious, along with her lust for life. We know that Year 11 is so important for our students, and yet we know whatever her results were; Chloe would have succeeded in life. Chloe had a great sense of humour and was beautiful inside and out. She had time for people and genuinely tried to look after those around her. Chloe was also creative, she drew fantastic pictures, as if the colour and warmth she had inside needed to radiate outwards.

“Chloe was an exceptionally popular member of the school, always surrounded by a clutch of giggling friends. She could talk the hind legs off a donkey. This may not have always been at the right times, but that innocent smile would spread angelically and it was impossible to be angry as you fought back your own grin.

“It’s always very painful to say goodbye to someone like Chloe, the fact that none of us had a chance to, makes it even harder. She will be remembered though, and her legacy will live on through her family and friends. There has not been a single person, teacher or student that has not had anything but the most positive of things to say about this young woman. This just goes to show what an impact she had on those that met her.

“Chloe was a vibrant, enthusiastic and bubbly young lady who always did her best. She will be sorely missed by all of us at Melksham Oak School. Our thoughts are with her family at this painful time. She will always be remembered here for her attitude; it was the smile that did it.”