Head teacher pays tribute to girl killed in North Yorkshire dog attack

Savannah Bentham, 10, suffered fatal injuries in the attack near Malton

Author: Tom HailePublished 5th Nov 2024
Last updated 5th Nov 2024

The head teacher of the school attended by a 10-year-old girl killed by her family's pet dog in North Yorkshire has described her as a "model student".

Savannah Bentham suffered fatal injuries in the attack near Malton last Friday (1st November) and died at the scene.

Police say an inquest into her death will be be opened at a later date.

The headteacher of West Heslerton Church of England Primary School, Rachel Wells, said:

“We have lost a little girl who was only 10 years’ old and who came to school every day with a smile for everyone and lots of lively chatter.

“Savannah was a model student who loved learning and was a friend to everyone.

“Her family are in our thoughts and prayers, and we will support the school and wider community in any way we can.

“Everyone needs time to try and process what’s happened so on behalf of the school community we ask for time and peace so that we can remember a little girl who was full of joy.

“We need to support our students, staff and the wider community to come to terms with losing our friend.”

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