A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute to a “wonderful” former student who died in a car accident last week.

Megan Harding-Jones, 18, from North Weald, died last Saturday, April 15, when her Volkswagen Polo left the road on the A414.

The keen horse rider attended Brentwood High School between 2010 and 2015, before going to college.

Steven Drew, headteacher, said: “Megan was a wonderful young person who brought light and joy to all who came into contact with her. She was dedicated to her studies and always willing to do whatever was needed in order to ensure success.

“The loss of any young person at the prime of their life is a tragedy that touches us all. We are always part of our school community; that never leaves us. Megan’s peers are out year 13 students, and Megan, like all our former students, remains as much part of our school as we all are.”

Megan, who worked at Brook Farm Equestrian Training Centre, was described by friends as a “beautiful young lady” who got on with everyone.

Essex Police are appealing for witnesses and ask anyone with any dashcam footage to call 01245240590.