A DORSET school is mourning the deaths of two former pupils in a road accident abroad.

Students Tara Darlington, 23, and her 21-year-old sister Pippa, died following the collision in Morocco in the early hours of Monday morning.

The girls’ friend, Joshua Stump, 21, was seriously injured in the accident and is fighting for his life in a Moroccan hospital.

Both had been pupils at Canford School near Wimborne.

A statement from the school said: “Tara and Pippa, who left in 2007 and 2009 respectively, both boarded and were popular and well-known pupils. With sunny personalities and a positive outlook, they contributed much to school life.”

Headmaster John Lever said: “Tara and Pippa achieved a great deal during their Canford years, both academically and in extra-curricular life. They left with bright futures ahead of them, Tara studying journalism in London and Pippa law at Newcastle University.

“Our thoughts are with both families at this very difficult time.”

A statement issued by police on behalf of the girls’ parents Patrick, 62, Emma, 52 and younger brother Oscar, 15, said: “We as a family are completely devastated at the loss of both our daughters.

“They were two of the most beautiful, dynamic, energetic and fun-loving girls who brought light and laughter to whoever met them. They made a difference to so many lives and they lit up every room on entering.”