A PROCESSION has taken place for a "little angel" who died after a brave battle against leukaemia

Balloons in Lily's favourite colour, purple, decorated Pershore High Street as her 'princess carriage' passed through the town. A rabbit shaped floral tribute decorated Lily's hearse.

Lots of people came out in Drakes Broughton to wave to Lily's carriage as it entered the village.

Lily May Filmer sadly lost her fight against acute lymphoblastic leukaemia on September 5.

The nine-year-old's family posted a message saying they will have a private celebration for her but invited people to "clap, cheer or blow a kiss to Lily".

Lily travelled along Pershore High Street at 10am on her way towards her home.

The High Street was lined with people waving and clapping.

Vikki Hale, 45, from South Littleton stood outside to say goodbye to Lily.

Ms Hale said: "My child Harley Hale, is in the year below Lily. I've told him Lily grew magic wings and will always be with us. We lit a candle to remember her."

"It's very, very sad. No parent should have to bury their child. Lily was always smiling, very positive attitude bless her."

Meryl Griffiths, from Powick, a retired first year teacher at St Barnabas Church of England First and Middle School who taught Lily, said: "She was always smiling. She had lots of friends and enjoyed learning. Difficult to explain her death to children."

Claire Lowden, former reception class teacher, from Drakes Broughton, said: "Lily was bright, joyful and she meant the world to us. I'm here today like many people from the village to pay our respects."

At 10:30am, Lily's princess carriage carried her into her home village, Drakes Broughton.

"She will pass her wonderful friends and teachers at school then along Walcot Lane to see the new park her brothers and sisters have been talking about, before she travels down Shrubbery Road" the family's message said.

Lily and her family then left the village for their private service.

"As Lily lived and dressed as a princess she will be looking for you to be dressed to impress. She loves all things glittery, sparkly, elegant and, of course, purple.

In the message the Drakes Broughton family said: "Lily peacefully passed into her forever sleep on September 5 in the exceptional care of Acorns Children's Hospice.

"Her love of her family ensured that she passed into her last rest, in her mum's arms with Craig, her brothers and sisters by her side after a normal noisy family lunch.

"Lily touched so many hearts and although her family would love to share the celebration with you all, unfortunately the current restrictions have made this difficult."