Man charged over girl's van death

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Detectives have charged a man with causing the death of a six-year-old girl who was hit by a van.

Demi Leigh Royle was walking home from a shop in Huyton, Merseyside, with a family friend when she was hit by a Fiat Ducato on Friday night.

She died later in hospital, leaving a "hole that can never be filled", her family said in a statement.

On Sunday, Merseyside Police charged a 24-year-old man with causing death by dangerous driving.

The man, who remains in custody, will appear before Huyton magistrates on Monday morning.

She will always be with us in our hearts and our memories Demi's family

The collision happened as Demi, a female family friend and her five-year-old daughter were walking along Astley Road, Huyton.

Police said the van turned off Hillside Avenue and into her path.

Demi, one of seven children, was described as a "loving and lively little girl" by her family.

"Everything she did made us laugh. Her not being here will leave a hole that can never be filled," they said.

"She will always be with us in our hearts and our memories."