Girl, 10, killed by dog 'had smile for everyone'

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

Savannah Bentham suffered serious injuries in the attack near Malton in North Yorkshire on Friday and died at the scene.

Rachel Wells, head of West Heslerton C of E Primary School, said they had lost a little girl "who came to school every day with a smile for everyone and lots of lively chatter".

The dog, which the BBC understands to be a type of XL Bully, is to be destroyed, police have said.

Ms Wells said the school community needed time to process what had happened and would remember a girl "full of joy".

She added: “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."

In a statement earlier, Savannah's family said they were "utterly shocked and devastated" by the death of their "wonderful girl".

They added: "We thank everyone for their support and kindness as we struggle to come to terms with our loss.

“We ask that our family’s privacy is respected while we grieve for Savannah.”

The force previously said its investigation had indicated the attack was "out-of-character" and that the girl and dog had "a close, loving relationship".

A police spokesperson said a post-mortem examination on Savannah took place on Sunday evening and an inquest into her death would be opened at a later date.

They said: "We are conducting detailed inquiries covering all aspects of the incident."

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here