Hundreds of people gathered in mourning to pay a touching tribute to a young girl, aged 12, who tragically died after being stabbed.
Mourners gathered at Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral to remember Ava White, who died after the brutal city centre attack on November 25.
On December 23, people came to pay their respects and say farewell to well-loved Ava, as reported by Liverpool Echo.
Comforting one another, mourners turned out in the rain for the service at 10am, with many donning bright colours and garments bearing a picture of the child.
Stunning photographs of the schoolgirl covered her coffin, which arrived in a white horse-drawn carriage after a procession through the city, arriving at the Cathedral to a round of applause.
In an emotional speech at the service, which was open to the public and media, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon said that there was "little sadder in life than the death of a child".
He added: "The grief we are experiencing today is overwhelming, so my deepest sympathy, and that of the Catholic Community, goes out to Ava's family and her friends."
He went on to say that the memories will 'continue to live in your hearts'.
The archbishop said Ava would "try anything" and was described as someone who "didn't fear anything" which is good as she will not "be afraid to step into the life of God."
He said: "Some of you will remember her as a daredevil who always brightened up the day of those present."
In the touching tribute, Ava was said to have enjoyed singing, dancing and going on holiday and was 'very energetic, even famous on TikTok ', which brought in a murmur of laughter in the room.
With rows of seats filled with emotional loved ones, Archbishop McMahon said Ava was "loved by so many" and heaven would undoubtedly be a "happier place" with her presence.
He spoke about Ava's interests in swimming, dancing and mixed martial arts as well as her talent at playing football, adding her "young life was a gift, short as it was, one which should be cherished with love and affection."
In a poignant moment following the service, a round of applause broke out as her coffin was carried out of the cathedral, followed by dozens of mourners, before making their way to a crematorium service in Anfield.
Thousands of people have paid tribute to the young girl as the city came together in their mourning.
One reader said: "I think this little girl has touched every heart in Liverpool. Such a sad tragic not needed attack. God love her family today.
"Wrap your arms around them god and keep them safe until they reunite together again. Thinking of her mum, dad, sister and extended family and Friends. Keep by there side today Ava."
Speaking after the service, the Archbishop described the funeral as "terribly moving and emotional".
He said it was "totally difficult to find the right words" as there were "no words to express this tragic loss".
Speaking to the media, he said: "The turnout today shows the unity and love we have here in Liverpool and that for Ava and her family.
"It was a terribly moving and emotional funeral, a fitting tribute to Ava.
"We continue to pray for Ava, her family, friends, teachers and community."
Police believe a "verbal argument" took place which resulted in the young girl suffering "catastrophic injuries."
The dad of the 12-year-old said the family were 'completely devastated and heartbroken'.
Speaking earlier this month, Robert Martin said: "We would like to say thank you to everybody for their ongoing support during this devastating time.
“Thank you to every one of you for your kind messages and donations.
“As Ava’s family we are completely devastated and heartbroken by what has happened and we ask that you respect our privacy at this time and allow us to grieve as a family.”
Opening an inquest into her death on Wednesday, December 15, senior coroner for Liverpool Andre Rebello said: "This is an investigation into the death of a young lady, Ava Martin White, who was certified as having died at Alder Hey Children's Hospital on November 25 this year."
He said the cause of death was a stab wound to the neck.
A 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court on November 29 charged with murder.
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