FAMILY and friends are in mourning following the death from suspected swine flu of a 17-year-old Wirral girl.

Olivia Rae Clee-Barnett died at Arrowe Park Hospital in the early hours of Sunday, January 2.

A gifted stage performer, Olivia appeared alongside her Wallasey School classmates in Sky One’s Grease: The School Musical in 2009.

The school beat 500 others from across the country to win the chance to perform the show at the Novello Theatre in London’s West End.

Headteacher of Wallasey School, Phil Duffy, said: “We are devastated by the news about Olivia, who was a very friendly, popular and positive member of our school community.

"She was a very able student, with a particular passion for music and theatre.

“We feel this loss deeply and are in close contact with Olivia’s family to support them in whatever way we can. Staff and students affected by this terrible loss will be offered bereavement counselling and our school chaplain will be there to offer further support.

“Our hearts go out to Olivia’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”

More than 1,500 have joined a Facebook tribute site in memory of Olivia. Katie Rooney, Olivia's music teacher, wrote: “We will all miss you terribly. We have our music lesson in the morning and I don’t know where to start.

“We will think of you every time we sing together and there will be a real gaping hole at choir and in all our performances. Lots of love.”

Angela Cavanagh-Murphy, a teacher of the teenager, wrote: “Olivia you were a superstar, so talented, energetic, happy and bubbly. A pleasure to teach and know. I will miss you x.”

A statement from Wirral University Teaching Hospital Trust said it “can confirm that a 17-year-old person admitted to Arrowe Park Hospital died over the weekend period. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Because of patient confidentiality the Trust is not in a position to release any further details.”

Arrowe Park Hospital remains closed to visitors in a bid to combat the spread of swine flu.

A spokesman said ward managers may use their discretion to allow one visitor per patient per day, but advised it was necessary to telephone in advance to confirm permission - 0151 678 5111.