A young girl has drowned after falling into a fast-flowing river while playing with her friends.

15-year-old Nicola Williams had been playing with her schoolmates on the banks of the River Rhymney alongside the Cardiff University sports field when she accidentally fell into the water.

Nicola’s friend jumped in to rescue her but she was swept away by the water.

A huge fleet of emergency services, including paramedics, firefighters and police, rushed to the scene when the alarm was raised. Helicopters and boats were deployed to search for Nicola, and she was later pulled from the water after an hour.

A South Wales Police spokesperson said: “We were called today at 5.20pm to a report of a girl in the river in Ball Lane, Llanrumney.

“We attended with a number of other emergency services and the police helicopter.

“At about 6.40pm a 15-year-old girl was located and despite the best efforts of emergency services she sadly passed away.”

Nicola’s devastated family and friends paid tribute to her and she was described as someone who ‘always did anything for anyone.’

One friend wrote: “RIP beautiful. Will be missed by loads. We all love you and we always will. You were taken to soon. Heaven has gained another angel.”

Another said: “Can’t believe what’s happened. I love you so much I will see you again soon.”

A third said: “Miss you so much my angel. Rest in paradise my gorgeous girl.”

Someone else added: “This happened outside my front door. Absolutely heartbroken. Sleep tight, Nicola. Gone way before your time. I commend the rescue services for their speedy work in trying to save her life.”

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