A teenage girl has been found dead at a North-East care home - just days after her friend was found hanged.

An investigation was underway last night into the death of 14-year-old Danielle Formosa at East Farmhouse Children’s Home, a privately-run home, in Consett, County Durham, on Tuesday morning.

An inquest will be opened at the coroner’s office, in Crook, later today.

Danielle, or Danni, as she was known, was from Sunderland, and was a pupil at St Anthony's Catholic Girl’s Academy in the city.

Last night it emerged that she was a Facebook friend of 14-year-old Sarah Clerkson, also from Sunderland, who was found hanged at a house party in Spennymoor earlier this month.

The day Sarah died, Danni posted her own tribute on Facebook, that said: “Love you Sarah, in so much shock it's unreal. God always takes the best from us, sleep tight gorgeous, you will always be missed.”

A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: “Police attended an address in Consett at around 9.50am on Tuesday December 17 in response to reports of the sudden death of a 14 year old girl.

“A post mortem examination has taken place and there appears to be no suspicious circumstances. The coroner has been informed and an inquest will open on Friday.”

A spokesman for St Anthony's Catholic Girl’s Academy paid tribute to the youngster.

She said: “The whole school community is devastated by news of the death of Danielle Formosa. We are praying for Danielle and holding her family in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time.”

Friends and well wishers have taken to social media websites to make comments in memory of her young life.

A group called RIP Danni Formosa has been set up on Facebook and has more than 240 members while a similar group, Rest in Paradise Danni Formosa, has 135 members.

Friend Natalia Rooks said: “A beautiful bubbly girl who never failed to make anyone laugh. You will be sorely missed by all of your friends and family.”

Shannon Henderson wrote: “Can’t believe we have lost such a nice caring and gorgeous girl like Danni. I don't think it will ever sink in. We all miss you so much. Rest in Peace, princess and sleep tight, love you millions.”

Beth Parker added: “RIP Danni you will be missed by so many people. We all love you and now you’re free, so spread your wings and be free. You have done your time and you make sure you party hard up there babe.”

Sunderland City Council and Durham County Council both declined to comment on the matter.

A spokesman for the Samaritans said: “We are there around the clock every single day of the year, including Christmas Day, for anyone who cannot cope.

“If anybody has got anything that they want to say to someone then we would urge them to contact us.”

To talk to the Samaritans for help on any issue, call 08457-90-90-90 or email jo@samaritans.org