TRIBUTES have poured in for a popular and caring 20-year-old who has died suddenly of liver failure.

Hannah Taylor, who was born with a heart defect, died at Colchester General Hospital on Tuesday.

The former Harwich High School pupil had been rushed to hospital by ambulance after visiting a doctor.

It is understood she would not have been able to survive treatment for the liver failure, because of her heart defect.

Keen horserider Hannah lived in Ramsey with her grandmother. Her parents, Paul and Lorna Worth, live in Dovercourt.

Best friend, Chantelle Heeney, said Hannah’s family and friends have been left devastated by their sudden loss.

Chantelle said: “Hannah was like an adopted sister and was at my house constantly. We were really, really close.

“She was born with a weak heart. She was ill for a week and kept going back to the doctors.

“On Monday, Hannah went to see the doctor again and she was taken to hospital in an ambulance.

“Everyone is devastated. She was really popular. Everyone loved her.”

Hannah had been studying an equine course at Otley College, in Suffolk, but had left because of her illness.

She had been planning a joint 21st birthday celebration with Chantelle for the summer.

Miss Heeney added: “People can’t believe it. No-one thought it would come to this.

“We have gone out for drinks in memory of her.

“She loved going out. She couldn’t drink because of her illness, but she would come and join in. She loved her lazy days as well.

“Hannah made me laugh. She was always there for me. A really caring person. She is going to be missed.”

Arabelle Hardy, from the Equine Department, at Otley College, in Suffolk, said: “Hannah was a really great student.

“She kept her horse at the college. She was really friendly and very well liked. Our thoughts are with her family at this time.”

Nigel Mountford, headteacher at Harwich High School, added his own tribute.

He said: “Hannah was a hardworking student and was a pleasure to teach.

“She was a people person, who was always happiest when surrounded by her friends.

“Hannah had a zest for life, which shone through her bubbly personality.

“She is fondly remembered by all who taught her here at the school and she will be sadly missed.

“Our thoughts are with her friends and family at this sad time.”

Details of Hannah’s funeral have not yet been announced.