Two hundred mourners packed a Brighton chapel to say farewell to a "one-in-a-million" schoolgirl.

Kali Hitchcock, 12, died from a rare disorder which resulted in a blood vessel bursting in her brain as she slept at her home in Hawkhurst Road, Coldean, Brighton.

Yesterday, family, friends, neighbours and school chums filled the Woodvale Chapel for what was described as a funeral service of appreciation.

Middle Street School, where Kali was a pupil until last summer, was closed as a mark of respect and five teachers and 35 students from Varndean where she transferred were among the congregation.

Many paid personal tributes, read by them or by Katherina Van Gend, who conducted the service.

They included: "Kali was without doubt the most beautiful, spiritual child I have ever met."

Another read: "She was such a wonderful friend and I will never forget her."

Others said: "Her smile brought out the sunshine" and "She was a one in a million."

Varndean head, Andy Schofield said: "Kali was a special pupil, everyone knows that, and a model pupil."

Kali's mother, Nicky, fought back the tears while her husband, Michael, cradled Kali's six-year-old sister, Kizzy.

Varndean teacher Dave Stringer said: "Kali was very, very popular and to say she will be greatly missed is a huge understatement."

All Kali's class wrote tributes: "Kali was happy, filled with fun and always kind and joyful".

Another put words to the letters of her name: "Kind, Always there, Loving, Intelligent."

Schoolboys and girls wept as Kali's uncle Charles and aunt Lynn paid homage.

Middle School head teacher Gina Hutchins said Kali's death had shocked the school: "We all felt the need to be together, to share what we had lost...we all feel privileged to have known her."

Kali's parents chose their daughter's favourite songs for the service: Olivia Newton John's Hopelessly Devoted To You from Grease, Sinead O'Connor's Nothing Compares To You, and Pras's Ghetto Superstar.

Mr Hitchcock kissed his daughter's coffin as mourners laid flowers and soft toys alongside.

His words for all parents were read during the service: "Be aware, now, how precious is the need for good relationships with your children, and to nuture and enjoy that."