FRIENDS of Bromyard schoolgirl Joanne Loris have paid tribute to her memory with a specially written poem at her funeral.

The life of the vivacious 15-year-old, who was killed in a road accident at Linton on October 16, was celebrated at St Peter's Church on October 24.

The moving poem was written by Charlotte Berry and read at the service by Lucy Hodgson, both Queen Elizabeth school friends.

The service, led by the Rev. Chris Fletcher, was packed with family, high school staff and students and a second poem was read by teacher Gaynor Mc Clarey.

Joanne was described as a happy young woman with a carefree spirit. On a lighter note she was also called a ray of sunshine and a diamond in life's ocean 'done up in jeans and a T-shirt'.

"She had laughed in adversity, set goals for a future career as a jockey and practised hard to be good at netball. Her short life had pointed a practical way forward, but her tragic death had emphasised the need to respect and care for one another in every aspect of health and safety," said the Rev. Fletcher.

His text at the service was from the prophet Isaiah and read: "The Lord God says: You are precious in my sight. I love you. Do not be afraid," referring to Joanne's life and the young congregation.