Friends family and loved ones, touched by the remarkable life of teenager Natasha Stapleton, said their last goodbyes at her funeral service.

More than 500 people gathered at Downs crematorium to pay their respects to the 13-year-old from Eggington Close, Moulsecoomb, Brighton.

Most squeezed in to the chapel but the crowd was so large, some had to listen on loud speakers set up outside.

Liverpool fan Natasha died last Wednesday, September 11, after a three-month battle against an adult form of the cancer melanoma.

Many, including classmates from Falmer High School, sobbed quietly throughout yesterday's funeral.

The Rev David Miller led the service as her friends, family and teachers gave individual tributes to a "cheeky, nice and kind" girl.

Natasha's youngest brother, ten-year-old James, had written a poem entitled My Sister which was read out by Mr Miller.

Her older brother Daniel, 16, was planning to sing Westlife's Evergreen but was too overcome with grief. The song was played on its own.

Falmer High School headteacher Anthony Edkins paid his respects by talking about Natasha's personality.

He highlighted her sporting abilities and read out thoughts from pupils written in a remembrance book.

A Liverpool scarf and football shirt were draped over her coffin and the anthem You'll Never Walk Alone, was played at the end of the service.

Speaking after the funeral Mr Edkins said: "I think she has made a lasting impression on the whole community. It has been amazing to see how much love a whole community can have."