Your online messages of tribute and sympathy

Visitors to the Echo’s Facebook pages paid tribute to Josie and offered their condolences to her devastated family.

Marilyn Thomson wrote: “As a mother of teenagers I don’t think I can even begin to imagine how the parents and family are coping right now.

“15? So unfair to have a young life cruelly taken away. Totally heartbreaking. God love this young girl.

Sarah Hopps said: “R.I.P Josie you beautiful Angel.

“I didn’t know this girl, but reading her story has broke my heart. 15yr old is too young. You’re a fighter and hero in everyone’s eyes darling xxx”

Nicola Hill was pleased to see how many people had turned out to pay their respects.

“I hope her family took some solace from the huge turnout,” she said.

“I had a lump in my throat watching school friends walking to the church together in their bright colours as she wanted.

“Her cortège including the horses was beautiful. RIP”

Gary Cleminson paid tribute to Josie’s bravery in facing up to her illness: “Sad, sad day,” he wrote.

“An absolute inspiration to everyone whose life has been touched by this special and courageous little girl. “Rest in peace little angel.” Jennifer Kelley and Lyndsey Hamilton’s thoughts were with Josie’s relations.

Jennifer wrote: “I don’t know your family, but may I just say I’m sorry for your loss. Your hearts must be broken in pieces,God Bless you xxx,” while Lyndsey said: “Heartbreaking. RIP gorgeous, thinking of your family xxx”

Lauren Kenny wrote: “Reading this story just breaks my heart. Life can be so cruel. RIP angel xxx,” while Laura Bainbridge wrote: “Beautiful girl with a beautiful heart.

“She will be sadly missed. Thoughts are with her family xx”

Deb Chisholm was touched by the numbers who had turned out for the service: “RIP Josie,” she wrote.

“What a wonderful send off you had today xx.”

Jacqueline “Unsworth” Brown said: “Shine like a diamond beautiful girl xxx,” while Michael Wilson wrote: “So sad to see such a young life taken so soon. God bless you RIP and Irene Brown added: “My heart breaks for this beautiful girl and her loving family.”