The family of a teenage girl who died after being hit by a car on New Year’s Eve have paid tribute to their “brightest star”.

Olivia Kolek, 14, was struck by a grey Mercedes near Rowley Regis railway station, in Sandwell in the West Midlands, at about 4.45pm on Friday, and died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics.

Paying tribute, the teenager’s family released a statement saying: “Our love, our heart, our life. We will love you forever and longer.

“She had a lot of plans for so many things to do. She was the brightest star in our life.

“We ask that our privacy is respected at this time.”

A 39-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving while under the influence of drugs. He has since been released under investigation while police await forensic test results and carry our further inquiries.

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