TRIBUTES were today paid to a popular teenager with an “infectious smile” who died this week.

Ellie Bramham passed away on Wednesday night, two days after her 14th birthday.

Today, her fellow pupils at BBG Academy in Birkenshaw released balloons in her memory.

Flowers also adorned a fence at the Bradford Road school, where Ellie was in year nine.

BBG Academy head teacher Saira Luffman said: “Ellie was a very fun-loving, bubbly character with a great generosity of spirit. She played a big role in academy life.

“Ellie will be remembered by many for her love of making everyone laugh and for her infectious smile.

“Ellie will be sorely missed at BBG. Our thoughts are with Ellie’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

“As an academy and a family we are very grateful for the community support received from schools in our area and within our Trust.

“We will continue to support the students within the academy over the coming weeks and months.”

A JustGiving webpage has been set up to help pay for Ellie’s funeral.

A message on the site said: “On January 11 our beautiful niece Ellie Bramham sadly passed away only two days after her 14th birthday.

“She suddenly became ill due to type 1 diabetes, which was brought under control at hospital but the strain on her was too much and she died of multiple organ failure.

“She was such a beautiful and happy girl with her whole life ahead of her and had such a bubbly personality. She always had everyone laughing.

“It is truly devastating for the whole family and everyone who knew her, but especially for her parents who have lost their child.

“So I am setting up this fund page to help them and to give those who wish to the opportunity to contribute towards a special send off for Ellie and to support her parents through this tragic time.”

Donations on the site have passed £1,300, with one person leaving a message with their pledge, which read: “Devastating news. Our children attend BBG. There are no words. You are all in our thoughts. We are all so very sorry for your loss.”

Ellie’s friends paid tribute on social media website Facebook.

Alex Edmondson said: “RIP Ellie, fly up angel, you will be missed.”

Chrissy Wilkinson wrote: “RIP Ellie, gone too young.”

Anyone who wants to donate to the fundraising appeal can visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Elliebramham14.