8:11am UK, Wednesday May 21, 2008

A young woman killed when branches ripped from a tree by a passing bus landed on her has been described as "life and soul of the party".

Emily Diamond

The victim, named locally as Emily Diamond, 23, died at the scene of the accident in central London.

It is thought she was walking beside the bus in Tower Bridge Road when a large branch smashed into the double decker, shattering windows before falling on top of her.

Nine other people were taken to hospital following the incident.

Friends said Miss Diamond, of Abbey Wood, south east London, was "bubbly".

Neighbour Sheila Thomas said: "Emily was a really bubbly person - a really nice girl."

Friends left messages of condolence on her social networking web page.

One wrote: "hun... you were always the life and soul of the party... we will miss you sweetie".

Another posting simply read: "sleep well Emily - you will be missed xxx."

Of the injured, five were treated for minor injuries, with four receiving attention for more serious wounds.