THE 12-year-old girl who tragically died following a house fire in Ballymena yesterday has been named as Brooke Reid McMaster.

The year nine pupil at Dunclug College was described by her headteacher as being a “beloved” student.

Principal Ruth Wilson posted on Facebook: “The staff and pupils of Dunclug College record deep sorrow on the tragic death of their beloved pupil, Brooke Reid, in Year 9, and send support and prayers to her grieving parents & family circle.

“‘Suffer the little ones to come unto me.”

Chief Inspector William Calderwood said: “Police received a report of the fire at around 5:50 pm at Staffa Drive in Ballymena.

“Tragically, the girl died at the scene.

“A man who was in the house was taken to hospital for treatment. 

“The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and will be subject to investigation, in liaison with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.”