Sister’s tribute to ‘funny, sassy, beautiful’ Nikki
THE sister of a 15-year-old girl who drowned in a Cardiff river has paid tribute to her sibling who “was loved by so many”.
Nicola Williams, who attended St Illtyd’s Catholic High School in Cardiff, was swept away by the fast-flowing water of the River Rhymney on August 21, leaving friends and family shocked.
A candlelit vigil was held by friends and family in their street in Trowbridge at 9pm on Friday as well-wishers gathered to remember the teen who “had a heart of gold”.
Her sister, Emily Cater, told us: “Our funny, sassy, beautiful Nikki would have loved the turnout last night.
“We all came together and lit candles, listened to a few of her favourite songs, raised money doing raffles, and I just know she would have been there with us in spirit.
“She had a heart of gold and was loved by so many. We laughed and cried and remembered our beautiful girl all night and will continue to do this for a lifetime.
“Nikki Noo, you were one of a kind, the best sister, auntie, daughter and friend. We all love and miss you dearly. Until we meet again, Nikki Bums. Fly high, sleep tight.”
A number of bouquets, photographs and tributes have been left on a footbridge that crosses the river in Llanrumney near to where the teen got into difficulty.
After the alarm was sounded on the evening of August 21 emergency services rushed to the scene. Search boats and a helicopter were also deployed and Nicola was pulled from the water around an hour later.
Her headteacher subsequently described Nicola as someone who was “so full of fun, kindness and generosity to others”.