Durham University student Olivia Burt dies outside nightclub

Olivia Burt died in the incident outside the bar

A Durham University student has died after suffering a "serious head injury" outside a nightclub.

Olivia Burt, 20, from Hampshire, was crushed beneath a falling barrier outside Missoula in Durham at about 23:55 GMT on Wednesday.

A post-mortem examination confirmed the first-year natural sciences student died as a result of head injuries.

A witness told the Northern Echo the barrier fell as people were moving in a queue to get in the bar.

Forensic investigators have been at the scene

Det Supt Kevin Weir described it as a "tragic incident" and said the force's thoughts "are with the family and friends of Olivia during this incredibly sad time".

The force is working with Durham County Council on a joint-investigation.

The venue holds what it claims to be Durham's biggest student night on Wednesdays.

It is in the popular Walkergate area in the city centre, where there are a host of bars and restaurants.

In a statement, Missoula said it was "a terrible accident" and they were working with the police and security company which provides door staff.

The North East Ambulance Service said it was called at about 23:50 to reports of someone having suffered a "serious head injury".

A spokeswoman said resuscitation attempts were made but "sadly the patient died at the scene".

Owen Adams, the university's pro vice-chancellor of colleges and student experience, said support was being offered to students and staff.

"We are extremely shocked and saddened by the death of a Durham University student," he said.