Tributes paid to isle of dogs girl

She won a silver medal before going for a swim in the pool, where minutes later she was found unconscious.

Michelle’s judo instructor Fred Turner, who tried in vain to revive her at the scene, said: “I was judo refereeing when my wife called me and I ran over.

“We believe Michelle slipped and didn’t come up. The other children called out to a man a couple of metres away who got her out.�

Fred said that the first aiders who were at the judo competition came to help and they all tried to administer CPR. He said: “The first aiders were fantastic as was the young life guard who helped.�

Michelle was airlifted to Colchester General Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Fred, 46, had known Michelle for about a year and said she was a much loved member of the team

He said: “We called her ‘well ’ard’ Gellard. That was her nickname but to me she was ‘Little Miss Attitude’. She could be a little mare but was always very lovable.�

“She was a real livewire, always on the go. We’re a very family orientated club and Michelle’s family have had many visits. People have been coming along constantly to offer their support.�

Michelle, who had two brothers and a sister, had been a member of the club for 12 months. She went to Harbinger School on the Isle of Dogs.

Michelle’s mother Sian Lakey said: “She was a cheeky little madam with attitude who could make anyone laugh but was also a loving, helpful and confident little girl.�

Her mum and dad, Asda worker Mark Gellard, asked that all donations be given to the judo club.
Malden District Council is investigating.