The father of a seven-year-old girl who died after a quad bike she was riding collided head-on with a Range Rover could face criminal charges, police have said.

Essex Police said they would speak to Gary Cooke, 46, today as part of routine inquiries after his daughter Elizabeth was fatally injured in Blackmore, Essex, on boxing day.

A police spokesman confirmed it was illegal for anyone under 16 to ride a quad bike on a public road.

Elizabeth was injured as she and her brother, Jack, 10, used the quad bikes they had been given for Christmas.

The children were riding behind a Range Rover driven by their father when Elizabeth's machine collided with another Range Rover travelling in the opposite direction, police said.

Meanwhile, the parents of tragic Elizabeth described her as "perfect in every way".

Speaking outside his house, Mr Cooke said: "No one could begin to imagine how much it has devastated the village and our close family.

"I don't know what will happen with the police investigation, we will have to take it as it comes and suffer the consequences should we need to."

In an emotional tribute, Mr Cooke and his partner, Elizabeth's mother Clare Batt, 34, they said their daughter "changed their world".

"You have had, and given us, the most amazing seven years any mum and dad could dream of.

"No-one will experience the incredible journey you have travelled," they said.

"We watched you grow from a small baby into a beautiful Princess who was perfect in every way. We are all privileged and proud to have shared your wonderful life. You have a special place in everyone's heart that you met along your journey. Sleep tight you beautiful Angel."

A post-mortem examination will take place today.

Following the accident, which happened on a narrow country lane, Elizabeth was taken to her home.

Ambulance crews were then called to the house. An ambulance service spokesman said paramedics, who alerted police, were told that the girl had "suffered internal injuries".

Police said the Range Rover driver - a 28-year-old woman from Brentwood, Essex - was arrested after police learned of the accident.

The woman has been released without charge on bail until today, police said.