Tributes have been paid to an 'effervescent' former Ellesmere College swimming student.

Eighteen-year-old Tazmin Pugh died in a house fire in Worcester on Sunday, October 28.

She was a former pupil at the college and a member of swimming club Ellesmere Titans, winning a European championship medal.

Headmaster of Ellesmere College, Brendan Wignall, paid tribute to Tazmin who he described as "a friend to so many".

"We offer our heartfelt condolences to Tazmin’s family and friends at this very difficult time," he said.

"It was with great sadness that we received the news of Tazmin’s death and I know that many will be deeply shocked at the passing of one so young and with their whole life ahead of them.

"Despite leaving Ellesmere College two years ago, Taz is still remembered by many, both within the school and by those who were her peers.

"Taz was a very talented swimmer but, more importantly, an outstanding young woman with an effervescent personality, who was a friend to so many."

Chairman of the Ellesmere Titans swimming club, Jon Pardoe, also remembered the talented swimmer.

"I will always remember the first time I met Tazmin back in 2010 competing at the Midland Swimming Championships in Coventry – a slightly shy 10-year-old with a positive, enthusiastic personality and an infectious sense of humour," Jon added.

"I will always have great memories of attending swimming galas and Championships all over the UK - with her father Ian always her number one supporter and fan.

"I saw her develop from being that very young swimmer into a emerging talent winning medals for GB on the international stage.

"We have a saying within the club - once a Titan...always a Titan – Tazmin will leave a lasting impact upon everyone who was fortunate enough to have known her."

West Mercia Police attended the house fire in Cotheridge, near Worcester around 8pm on Sunday.

Detective Inspector Mark Roberts said: "Following a fire at a property in Bromyard Road, Cotheridge on Sunday, we are leading a thorough investigation with the support of partners across a number of agencies.

"I want to reassure members of the local community that no one is being sought in connection with the incident and public safety is not a concern."