THE death of four-year-old Violet-Grace Youens following a hit-and-run has sparked immense shock, sadness and anger across St Helens.

Violet-Grace passed away in hospital at 11.38pm on Saturday, in the arms of her mother, a statement on Facebook said.

Violet-Grace’s grandmother Angela French, 55, who was walking her, was also hit and remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital.

Both had been knocked down by a black Fiesta, which police suspect was stolen, on Prescot Road, near to the junction of Dunriding Lane on Friday afternoon.

Two young men are believed to have been seen fleeing the vehicle and running away from the scene.

After news of the youngster's death emerged yesterday, a floral shrine, including teddies and heartfelt messages built on Prescot Road.

Candles were also lit last night.

There has been an outpouring of emotion from Star readers distressed by the tragedy, while a GoFundMe page has been raising funds to support her parents.

Many turned to social media to express their views.

Writing on the Star's Facebook page, Kelly Nichols said:  "I dont know the family at all, but I wish to pass on our sincerest condolences to the family and my heartfelt wishes that the people who have caused this terrible thing to happen are caught and swiftly brought to justice.

"My heart goes out to the whole family and although it's of scant comfort, my thoughts will be with them always.

"Her parents & family & friends should be very proud to have spent time in the presence of such a wonderful, strong little angel."

"There's no words that I can say to make anything better but my heart hurts for Violet's family my thoughts are with u. R.I.P. little angel violet."

Moll Martlew added: "There's no words that I can say to make anything better but my heart hurts for Violet's family my thoughts are with you. R.I.P. little angel Violet."

Violet’s pancreas and both kidneys were donated following her death.

In a brief statement the family said that they were “devastated by the loss of their beautiful daughter but they wanted the organ donations to benefit other children and give them a chance to lead long and happy lives”.

Police have been hunting two young men who fled the car, which was abandoned at the scene, but have been tight-lipped about their investigation over the weekend.

In a message on social media, Violet-Grace's mum Rebecca wrote: “My beautiful baby girl passed away in my arms on 25/03/2017 at 23:38. Thank you for all your well wishes... she was just too poorly.

“However, my brave baby girl saved two lives by donating her kidneys and pancreas. I am truly heartbroken but proud of my little fighter!

“Violet Grace Susan Youens 02/10/2012 - 25/03/2017 RIP baby girl.”

Violet-Grace is the daughter of Rebecca and Glenn. She leaves a 21-month-old brother Oliver.

The tragedy has sparked immense sadness across St Helens.

Detectives say they are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry as they hunt the occupants of the Fiesta.

Images of two men in sports kit – seen running away from the scene – were released on Friday and have been circulated widely.

The Fiesta car came to the attention of patrols shortly before being involved in the hit-and-run, say police.

It went on to strike a lamppost before the men fled.

The first male police want to trace is described as white, aged 15-20, around 5ft 10in tall, of slim build, with brown hair. He was wearing a royal blue t-shirt and royal blue shorts.

The second male is described as being white, aged 15-20, with brown medium length hair.

He was wearing a black t-shirt and black shorts and dark trainers.