'My heart has been torn into a million pieces by the death of my beautiful girl'

The heartbroken mother of a "beautiful" and "intelligent" student who tragically passed away has paid tribute to her beloved daughter. Alice McGrath, who was studying at Edge Hill University, died unexpectedly on September 5.

Online tributes have poured in for the child and adolescent mental health and wellbeing student. Now, Alice's mother, Leeanna Povey, has written a poignant letter to her 20-year-old daughter.

In the emotional letter, the 46-year-old wrote: "Where do I begin. My only baby girl. You were born on Tuesday, December 16, 2003, at 5.02am weighing 6lb 2oz, with a mop of dark hair, the finest eyelashes and a pale complexion, you were beautiful from the moment you came into this world," reports the Liverpool Echo.

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"From an early age music was your thing, you'd be in your walker, bouncing and jiggling to the music with that gorgeous smile on your face. As you got older and learned to walk and talk, music was still a big thing to you. You sang in front of the TV with sunglasses on, trying to copy all the videos, you were such a sassy diva but good as gold. Although I loved to dress you up pretty, you hated it, you loved to be in trousers and trainers climbing trees and getting into mischief with your older brothers Konah and Koney. You followed them everywhere and they've been your biggest protectors since the day you were born."

She continued to describe Alice's laugh and her ability to make others laugh no matter what. She added: "You had so many friends because you were just beautiful."

Recalling the day Leeanna received the news of her daughter's death, she wrote: "I'll never forget the day I had the phone call to say that you were gone, I thought it was a joke at first, then thought maybe they got the wrong child but it wasn't. It was you. My world collapsed around me that day. Having to tell your older and your younger brothers as well as the rest of the your family you were no longer here."

"Alice, losing you has left me broken, my heart has been torn into a million pieces and it hurts like hell. As your mum I wish I could have saved you, all I have is photos and memories and a broken heart. I'll never get to celebrate your 21st birthday, you being my bridesmaid next year, you not getting married and having children. All the things a mother wants for her daughter."

Finishing the letter, Leeanna said: "I will never forget my beautiful, sweet, loving, intelligent baby girl. My only princess. Some days are just too much but I have four other children that I need to look after. I love and miss you so, so much my gorgeous girl."

"I hope wherever you are, you are happy, that's all I ever wanted. It's not a goodbye from me sweetheart, it's a see you again soon. Be free, be happy and keep a seat for me because when I see your beautiful face again, I'll be giving you the biggest cuddle ever. Your loving mum, Leeanna."

Following news of the former Maricourt Catholic High School pupil's death, a memorial space was organised by her friends on the university's campus, with flowers and phots placed next to a tree to remember her. Dr Michael Richards, a senior lecturer in applied health and social care at Edge Hill University who worked closely with Alice, paid tribute to his former student. He said: "Everyone at Edge Hill University is deeply saddened by the loss of Alice."

"She was a caring and dedicated student who was committed to building a career focused on supporting and caring for young people in need. Alice showed real potential in her studies, and her kindness and compassion touched everyone who knew her. She will be greatly missed by her peers and tutors. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time, and we will continue to honour her memory within our community."