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Lauren Hurley/PA Wire
UK News

Church funeral for murdered schoolgirl with "heart of gold"

by Hannah Tooley

The 15-year-old has been described as a bright schoolgirl who had "a heart of gold" and always put her family first.

Around 400 people attended her funeral at St Laurence's Church.

Her body was found in woodland in November.

Stephen Beadman, 28, of George Avenue, Ibstock, has been charged with murder and rape and Luke Harlow, 27, also of George Avenue, has been remanded in custody charged with grooming and two counts of sexual activity with a child.

Tributes written by members of Kayleigh's family, including her siblings, were read out at the service by Baptist minister Roy Monks.

Her former primary school headmaster, Derek Mullan, addressed mourners at St Laurence's Church, describing how Kayleigh always looked after her younger brother in the playground when he started school.

Lauren Hurley/PA Wire

 
The head teacher said: "For the staff of the school, one of the most endearing memories was of Kayleigh's big smile as she bounded down the corridor first thing in the morning.

"She would have a cheery 'Good morning' and staff would return the greeting. Kayleigh would have a chat with any member of staff and a few minutes of friendly banter in the morning.

"In common with us all, Kayleigh didn't get it right all the time. She had her moments; she could challenge the patience of us all. However, she did have a heart of gold. She loved and protected her family."

Lauren Hurley/PA Wire

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