TRIBUTES have been paid to a 19-year-old Hampshire girl who died suddenly after being struck down by meningitis.

Lauren Downey, pictured, was rushed into hospital after she became unwell on Sunday, February 8.

The teenager, who had shown no symptoms of the disease, had developed septicaemia and then passed away during that night.

Her parents, Paul and Helen, said Lauren was a “kind, thoughtful, generous and loving daughter” who will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Mr Downey said: “My wife and daughter had gone to see her the day before and she was fine.

“We just couldn't believe it. Everyone will miss her greatly.

“She had her whole life ahead of her.”

The popular student grew up in Sopley in the New Forest alongside her two younger siblings James, 15, and Olivia, 13.

A former pupil at Bournemouth School for Girls she was in her second of studying history at University College London and hoped to pursue a career in journalism.

Mr Downey said: “She was a brilliant student.

“She needed one A* and two As to get into university. She ended up with 2A*s and an A. She had always been a real smarty pants.

“She went to UCL and did brilliantly in her first year.

“She wanted to become a journalist and was hoping to get an internship at the BBC this summer.

“She had everything going for her.”

The youngster had a passion for music, enjoyed reading and loved going on family holidays.

She practised kick-boxing throughout her teenage years and had many friends both at home and in London.

Mr Downey said: “She always lived life to the full.

“She was brilliant academically but she loved a night out and university life.

“She loved going to festivals and concerts. She went to Reading Festival for the last few years and the Isle of Wight Festival but she was also very studious.

He added: “All in all, Lauren packed a hell of a lot into her 19 and a half years.”

Lauren's funeral was held at Christchurch Baptist Church on Thursday.