Tributes have been pouring in for British dancer Órla Baxendale, who tragically passed away in the US after consuming a mislabelled biscuit containing peanuts. The 25-year-old, originally from Lancashire, suffered a fatal anaphylactic shock on January 11th due to the undisclosed presence of peanuts in the vanilla florentine cookie she ingested.

Having relocated to New York to pursue her passion for dancing, Baxendale’s untimely demise has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the artistic community. Her sister, actor Ciara Baxendale, took to Instagram to express her deep admiration for Órla, highlighting her radiant and enchanting personality, and the immeasurable loss felt by those who knew her.

In a heartfelt statement, Baxendale’s family described her as a brave and extraordinary individual who fearlessly pursued her dreams, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Her alma mater, Elmhurst ballet school in Birmingham, also commemorated her as a ‘radiant force’ both on and off the stage, emphasizing her genuine nature and the joy she brought to those around her.

Órla Baxendale’s tragic passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of allergen awareness and accurate food labelling, shedding light on the potentially life-threatening consequences of mislabelled products for individuals with allergies. As the dance community mourns the loss of a promising talent, her legacy continues to inspire and resonate with all who were touched by her remarkable spirit.