A Candlelight vigil has been organised in tribute to a Workington teenager who died following a car crash on Christmas Eve.

Bethany Ostle, 17, was a passenger in a Fiat Punto which was in collision with a Mini Cooper on the road between Tallentire and Bullgill at about 5.10pm last Thursday.

She was taken to the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle but died later.

In a statement, her family said: “Bethany was a loving daughter, granddaughter, niece and cousin.

“Whilst she was taken from us so young, we had 17 wonderful years and she will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

“Bethany was an outgoing, confident, popular girl who had many friends and enjoyed living her life to the full.”

Friends have organised the New Year’s Eve vigil in her honour, with people invited to The Green opposite Tesco in Workington at 6pm to light candles, release lanterns and pay tribute to the former Stainburn School pupil.

Courtney Gresty, who went to school with Bethany and was studying health and social care with her at Lakes College, Lillyhall, said: “Beth was my best friend for over 14 years.

“We have shared so many memories that will stick in my heart for a lifetime.

“She was such a big part of my family. She knew how to cheer me up.

“She will be a big miss to everyone. I will miss her so much.”

Fellow school friend Sophie McConaghy said: “Beth was a loving, kind, thoughtful person. She was a brilliant friend and always there for anyone no matter what.

“I miss her dearly and I hope she is at peace now. Goodnight, God bless princess.”

Bethany, who lived in Seaton and Workington, was a regular member of Seaton Carnival royalty. She was snow queen in 2006, rose queen in 2007, carnival queen in 2008 and Britannia in 2010.

A spokesman for the carnival committee said: “She was a lovely little girl. She was really pleasant and happy.

“It’s incredibly sad. In such a small community it affects everybody.”

Bethany was the daughter of Jonathan and Alison and granddaughter of David and Anne Ostle and the late Tom and Jean Banks.

Celia Tibble, of Seaton, knew Bethany as a family friend as well as through the carnival.

The teenager was a bridesmaid for Celia’s daughter, Beth.

Celia said: “She was a beautiful girl and my grandchildren were very fond of her.

“She was just bright and bubbly and very generous with her time to her family and friends.

“While obviously we’ll miss her, what we need to remember is that she loved lots and was loved.

“I’m sure her family are grateful for all their friends and acquaintances rallying round.”

A celebration of Bethany’s life will be held at Distington Hall Crematorium on Friday, January 8 at 1.15pm.

Her family has requested family flowers only. Donations in her memory can be made to the accident and emergency unit at the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle, via Tom Edgar Funeral Services.

The driver of the Fiat Punto, an 18-year-old Workington man, and the driver of the Mini, a 23-year-old man from Cockermouth, were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Both were later described as stable.

Any witnesses are asked to call police on 101.