A Pembrokeshire student has tragically died after contracting meningitis.

Eighteen-year-old Hannah Gwilliam, of Burton, a Foundation Art student at Pembrokeshire College passed away last Thursday night.

In a statement, Dr. Mac Walapu, consultant in communicable disease control for Public Health Wales, said: "We have been made aware of the death of a teenager from Pembrokeshire.

"Laboratory results have indicated that the student had meningococcal serotype group B.

"We have arranged for people who were in close contact with the teenager to receive medication which will prevent them from becoming ill.

"Meningitis can affect anyone at any time and it is therefore important to be aware of the symptoms, which can include headache, fever, drowsiness, vomiting, neck stiffness and possibly a red rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass tumbler."

Principal of Pembrokeshire College, Sharron Lusher, paid tribute to the student.

She said: "Staff and students from across the college wish to extend their heartfelt condolences to the student's family and friends. We are all devastated by the news and will be offering support to any students affected by this tragedy."

More information on meningitis can be obtained from the Meningitis Research Foundation, which has a 24-hour freephone helpline on 0808 800 3344, or from the Meningitis Trust's 24-hour freephone helpline on 0800 028 1828.