TRIBUTES have been paid to a young Hampshire girl who has died after battling a rare form of cancer.

Brooke Leavey, 11, passed away with her parents by her side at their home in Hedge End on March 14.

Last April, her parents Daniel and Lisa received the news that Brooke had an inoperable tumour on her brain stem.

Brooke received treatment at Southampton General Hospital and then intensive radiotherapy to combat the aggressive cancer known as DIPG.

Amongst other events, pupils from Berrywood School raised more than £3,500 by throwing a fashion show to fund specialist treatment, while a “Do it for Brooke” campaign raised over £168,584.

This meant Brooke, who loved singing with sister Amelia, could receive care in the USA unavailable in Britain.

However, despite medical treatment, the little girl succumbed to the illness.

Brooke’s family and friends said in a statement: “It is with the heaviest of hearts we need to share with you that our gorgeous Brooke has passed away.

“She was at home, surrounded by her precious family and knew exactly how much she was loved, right until the end.

“Brooke’s body may have failed her, but we absolutely know that her spirit will live on in everyone that knew and loved her. Despite everything she endured, Brooke faced every day with positivity and as a family, they have managed to find joy in everything they did, despite the heartache they felt inside.

“We are quite sure that she is already the solo in heaven’s choir of angels.

“Brooke has made an unforgettable imprint on our lives in just 11 years. Her voice, her feisty spirit, diva hair flicks, beauty and the biggest, kindest heart is her legacy. We now have a very important job to do; LOVE with everything you have, LAUGH until it hurts, LET GO of things that don’t bring you joy. LIVE for Brooke. Do it for Brooke.

“We wanted to thank you so much for all you have done, whether that be raising money, awareness or sending love, prayers or positivity to the Leavey family throughout the past 11 months.”