Police investigating death of Durham Uni student

Durham Police have confirmed that a 20-year-old woman who died at a nightclub in Durham on Wednesday night is Durham University student Olivia Burt.

Olivia, originally from Hampshire, died after receiving fatal head injuries outside Missoula nightclub at Walkergate.

Despite first aiders' efforts to save her, she died in the

Durham Police say they've launched a joint investigation between themselves and Durham County Council to investigate the circumstances around the incident.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Weir, from Durham Constabulary, said:

"This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Olivia during this incredibly difficult time."

The North East Ambulance Service said: "We received a call at 23.50 to reports of an incident outside Missoula in Durham City Centre in which someone had received a serious head injury.

"CPR was in progress we sent 3 resources including our HART team as well as an officer.

"Sadly the patient died at the scene.''

Forensics officers in white suits were at the cordoned-off scene, and a blue police tent was positioned by barriers erected outside the venue.

White chairs had been knocked over and debris was strewn on the ground in the bar's outside area.

Professor David Held, Master of University College, Durham, said:

“The staff and students of University College, Durham acutely feel the loss of Olivia Burt.

“Olivia arrived in Durham last autumn to begin reading Natural Sciences. She came to Durham with glowing references from her school where she was regarded in the highest possible terms.

“She had an outstanding academic record and was an exceptional sports woman. She was part of the British Sailing team in the European Championships. Olivia sailed for more than a decade, quickly finding her place in the University team. She became very active both in College life and the wider University.

“Those students close to her have lost a wonderful friend, whom in their shock they grieve for, alongside her family and friends.

“The College has lost a bright and outstandingly able student. It is hard to come to terms with her loss, and we will miss her greatly."

Missoula is in a busy area of bars and restaurants above the Wear.

The bar owners said in a statement:A full investigation has been launched, working with the Police and the company who provide our door staff, to fully understand what led to this terrible accident.

Until that is concluded we are unable to comment further.

Our thoughts are with the young lady's family and friends.'