Gemma Dimmick at a wedding earlier this year

Northumberland County Council has moved into action after the deaths of the youngsters, who attended Hirst High School, Ashington.

The council's Education Directorate will work with the school to look at the support networks and assistance given to Karl Peart, 16, and Gemma Dimmick, 15, prior to their recent deaths.

Staff at Hirst High School in Ashington say they are "absolutely devastated" by the death of 15-year-old Gemma.

The teenager was found dead at her home in Ashington on Monday.

The tragedy comes on the day a memorial service was being held for fellow pupil Karl Peart, whose parents claim he killed himself because of bullying.

'School devastated'

The 16-year-old left notes to his parents in which he planned his own funeral. His parents said he had suffered years of bullying.

It is understood Gemma also left a note, but there is no indication that she was being bullied.

The council inquiry will now look at procedures and guidelines, and advise on how any improvements might be made.

Karl was found dead at his home in Lynemouth two weeks ago. Gemma was found dead at her Ashington home on Monday, 16 June.

Ged Lee, Headteacher at Hirst High School said: "Everyone at the school is absolutely devastated by Gemma's death.

"It is particularly hard to handle coming so soon after the death of fellow pupil Karl Peart.

'Trained counsellors'

"Gemma was a vibrant member of the school community and her death is a complete shock.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this time.

"We are arranging for a team of trained counsellors to come into the school to give professional support to everyone who might be affected by these twin tragedies."

A county council spokesman said: "It would be inappropriate to comment further until after the coroner's inquest."

The parents of Karl Peart claim he had been taunted through primary school and routinely attacked throughout his secondary school career.

He is believed to have taken a fatal mixture of painkillers and alcohol.