Candlelit vigil to be held for Durham University student who died outside club

A candlelit vigil is to be held in memory of a 20-year-old student who died of head injuries outside a Durham club.
A photo by the Royal Yachting Association of Olivia Burt, a 20-year-old student in her first year at Durham University who died in an inciden outside a busy city centre nightclub.A photo by the Royal Yachting Association of Olivia Burt, a 20-year-old student in her first year at Durham University who died in an inciden outside a busy city centre nightclub.
A photo by the Royal Yachting Association of Olivia Burt, a 20-year-old student in her first year at Durham University who died in an inciden outside a busy city centre nightclub.

Olivia Burt, who was studying a degree in natural sciences at the city's university, died on Wednesday night after an incident outside the Missoula night club in the Walkergate area of Durham.

Police were called at about 11.50pm following reports of a student on the floor outside the venue.

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When officers arrived, they found Olivia was being resuscitated by door staff before a crew from the North East Ambulance Service continued attempts to revive her.

Durham Constabulary has confirmed Olivia was declared dead at the scene.

Tomorrow at 5pm, students will gather in the Castle Courtyard for a candlelit vigil for Olivia, who was from Hampshire.

A statement from the Master of Castle said: "All of those who knew Olivia or who had any connection to her are welcome at this vigil."

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Professor David Held, Master of University College at Durham, has been among those to pay tribute to Olivia.

He said: "The staff and students of University College, Durham acutely feel the loss of Olivia Burt.

“Olivia arrived in Durham last autumn to begin reading Natural Sciences.

"She came to Durham with glowing references from her school where she was regarded in the highest possible terms.

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“She had an outstanding academic record and was an exceptional sports woman.

"She was part of the British Sailing team in the European Championships.

"Olivia sailed for more than a decade, quickly finding her place in the university team.

"She became very active both in college life and the wider university.

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“Those students close to her have lost a wonderful friend, whom in their shock they grieve for, alongside her family and friends.

“The College has lost a bright and outstandingly able student. It is hard to come to terms with her loss, and we will miss her greatly.”

Detective Superintendent Kevin Weir, from Durham Constabulary, said: “This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Olivia during this incredibly sad time.

“A joint investigation is ongoing between ourselves and Durham County Council to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.”