Hundreds of mourners, many wearing items of pink clothing as a mark of respect, packed into a tiny Shropshire church to bid farewell to an 11-year-old girl who died suddenly while on holiday in North Wales.
Heartfelt tributes were paid to Layla Pitt by friends and family at her funeral in St Milburga’s Church, Beckbury.
The talented girl from Ivatt Close, Dawley, had studied since the age of three with the Carmichael School of Theatre Arts at Oakengates.
The congregation was reduced to tears during the service when a recording of Layla’s singing voice was played in the church.
She died at Liverpool’s Alder Hey Children’s Hospital on August 6 after suffering a brain haemorrhage a day earlier at a supermarket in Caernarfon, Gwynedd.
Use the comments box below to pay your tributes to Layla
Her family had asked mourners to wear an item of pink clothing - making the service into a sea of the late youngster’s favourite colour.
The Reverend David Chantrey led the service, calling it a celebration of Layla’s life.
David Askins, Layla’s grandfather, told the congregation: “Layla was quite simply the busiest 11-year-old I have ever met.
“She loved to sing and dance, and write, produce and direct a series of plays which were always performed at the drop of a hat.
“She was the happiest of children - caring, grateful and thoughtful.
“Good night, sleep well my dearest and thank you for nearly 12 happy, happy years.”
Layla’s voice echoed through the church, where her parents Rachel, 35, and Tristan, 37, were married, as recordings showcasing her love of singing and performing were played.
The former Coalbrookdale and Ironbridge Primary School pupil’s faultless renditions of Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On and Leona Lewis’s Bleeding Love were played to the congregation.
Staff from Alder Hey Hospital, who had treated Layla, were so moved by her death that they attended the service to offer their condolences.
So many people attended the funeral that about 50 mourners lined the churchyard to hear the service relayed through loudspeakers.
A collection was held to raise money for a “fitting tribute” to Layla, who is survived by sister Liberty, seven, and three-year-old brother Alfie.
By Tom Johannsen
6 Comments
i never knew this little girl or her family but read about her in the paper my deepest sympathy to her family and friends on losing such a pretty and talented child may she shine brightly up in heaven and in your hearts xxxxx
I am Layla’s ‘Nanna”.
It is my intention to say a personal heartfelt thank you to all those who have been so supportive since our tragic loss, just as soon as I can.
But in the meantime may I take this opportunity to thank all those who have sent their messages of condolences, and done all they can to help following the sudden and tragic loss of our precious girl Layla.
Amongst our pain and anguish at layla leaving us, my family and I have been astounded at the kindness of so many people. There could be no better tribute to such a sweet, kind and thoughtful child that so many people have have gone out of their way to express their support to us all.
Most of all, may I place on record how truly proud I am of my daughter Rachel (Layla’s Mommy), and Tristan my son in law (Layla’s daddy) for their strength and courage at this very painful time. Not only did their constant love of Layla make her into the beautiful person that she was, but their continuing determination to reduce the pain for Layla’s younger sister and brother as a result of their enormous loss is truly inspirational.
My heart (although aching that our girl has gone) bursts with pride at the bravery of Rachel, Tristan, Liberty and Alfie. I love you all. xx
hello im hannah and my sister Emma Gregory wants to say…. Rachel what a beatiful daughter you raised can’t belive you, Layla, Liberty and Alfie were in tranquillity just before your holiday Layla was looking after her brother and sister and they were all very happy sitting playing together,was lovley to see them all together laughing you are all in are thoughts Emma and all at tranquillity x
ok now it is me Hannah Gregory i knew Layla she went to my dance school she was really nice to every one she was really funny and talented we saw each other somtimes in tap and ballet. as soon as i looked at the news paper i could not belive it i just ran to my room a called one of my freinds so i could talk it out i really miss her and so dose every one else you dont realize how much it hurts untill it happens to you missing her lodes Hannah xxx
may your love and heart go on forever layla. you will never be forgotten and you will always be in my prayers. sending my love to lucy, paul, rita, andy, russel, tristan, rachel, aflie and liberty xxx
I knew layla’s moom as she is my teacher i saw layla only one time but that showed me how much she was and still is loved by her family.
I’m so sorry for your upset in your family it upset me when i read this.
from
Jazz,Vicky and the rest of set 2
xxxxx
Layla, you were a star
never really talked to you much at school but i wish i had now
when i heard what had happened i couldn’t believe it
layla i love you, you were amazing
how is it up there?
ill always be by your side even if your not by mine
iloveyou. x <3 r.i.p layla xx