The friends of a girl crushed by a tree in Banstead “screamed for help” in an attempt to save her life.

The child, who has been named locally as Brooke, was hit by branches in Grove Place near the junction with Carshalton Road at around 4pm on November 9.

Officers, London Ambulance Service crews and London Fire Brigade were called to the scene. 

However, Brooke died from her injuries shortly after.

One local resident told The Sun: “Moments before I saw them walking down the path, and then I heard screams.

“One of her friends shouted, ‘My friend has been crushed. Please help me’.

“I feel very sad, but I couldn’t save her. I knew she’d already gone.”

Another said: “There really was nothing anyone could do but try and provide some comfort to the kids who witnessed it.”

Tributes have since been paid to Brooke online, with her cousin describing her as “one of a kind”.

They wrote: “You don’t deserve this. You had your whole life ahead of you.

“You were one of a kind and you would never hurt a soul.”

Another added: “I love you so much, you will never be forgotten, you will always be my best friend.

“I can’t believe you’re gone, I will miss you forever. I’m so sorry I didn’t come see you sooner. I love you girl.”

And another post said: “This girl had a heart of gold, she didn’t deserve half the stuff she went through.”

The footpath, by Grove Place, was closed as officers from the Metropolitan Police investigated the scene.

London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “At 4pm, crews from Croydon and Wallington fire stations, and a fire engine from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service's Banstead Fire Station, were sent to the scene as part of our response.

“Upon arrival firefighters immediately began to coordinate the rescue operation, working to make the scene safe and carrying out immediate emergency care in support of paramedics from the London Ambulance Service.

“Sadly, despite the effort of emergency service personnel in attendance, the child was declared dead at the scene.

“The thoughts of our crews and staff across the entire Brigade are with the child's family at this difficult time.”

The incident is not believed to be suspicious, however enquiries continue to establish the circumstances.

A report will be prepared for the coroner in due course.