A HAMPSHIRE student who died after being crushed by a gritter lorry during a night out with friends was today described as "an exemplary" pupil.

Budding scriptwriter Melissa Wallace was killed in an accident on Edinburgh's North Bridge as she left the city's washed-out Hogamany celebrations at 1.15am.

The 20-year-old, who had been wearing high heels, is thought to have slipped in the stormy weather as she tried to cross the road.

Police said she suffered severe head injuries after being dragged under the seven-ton gritter and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Although from Glenrothes, Fife, Melissa had been on a BA (Hons) Media Writing course in Southampton and had dreamed of a career in the movie business after completing her studies.

Today one of her tutors led tributes at Southampton Institute, where she was described as a popular and talented student.

Seamus Finnegan, senior lecturer in media writing, who taught script and performance to Melissa in her first semester, said he remembered her fondly. "Melissa was an exemplary student and a totally charming young woman," said Mr Finnegan.

"She was very bright and intelligent and was enjoying her first semester on the course. It was obvious she was a very talented student from the work she produced."

He added: "She was a delight to have in lectures and seminars and she contributed brilliantly to seminar discussions."

Melissa had been spending the Christmas break with her family when the accident happened.

Police described the incident as an "horrific accident" which was witnessed by people making their way home from Edinburgh city centre.