The proud mum of Imogen Evans says a stunning memorial garden at her school shows she is still a huge part of people's lives.
The 10-year-old St Joseph's Catholic Primary School pupil captured the hearts of people in Uttoxeter during her brave battle against cancer.
After she tragically died last year, teachers, pupils and family friends decided to launch a huge fund-raising campaign to create a glorious garden in her memory.
On Wednesday, July 19, the stunning green space was officially opened by Imogen's seven-year-old sister, Georgina.
Mum Ginny said: "It's a fitting tribute to Imogen. It's so lovely to know how much everyone cares about her and wants to keep her memory alive.
"We hope it gets used for years to come, because she would've been absolutely delighted with it. She used to have a wander around our garden at home when she got home from school, think and have a little talk to herself.
"The sculptures of dandelions and butterflies, as well as the bug house in the garden, reflect the passion she had for nature.
"We've been made to feel that Imogen has been part of Year Six, even though she only got to study with them for a few weeks before she became too ill.
"Her name's been kept on the cloakroom hangers and her name's on all the leavers' sweaters. It all shows she's still a big part of people's lives."
Youngsters sang Give me Joy in my Heart, joined by Uttoxeter priest Father The-Quany Nguyen. Bishop David McGough, of the Diocese of Birmingham, was on hand to give an address and bless the garden with holy water.
School principal Joyce Cassidy said: "A few months ago, we did a lot of crying when we had to say goodbye to Imogen. Now is a time for joy as we look at the legacy she has left us. What do we remember most about Imogen?
"Wherever she went, she had a book with her. She loved her drama, her art and her friends. She loved her music and played the ukelele. She was very proud of her faith.
"Imogen was a vegetarian - and woe betide anyone who tried to give her a sausage that wasn't a veggie sausage. Our garden includes a reading area, a quiet area, a drama area and an area for growing veg - all reflecting things Imogen was passionate about."
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Vice-principal Louise Sassi gave her thanks to all those who contributed to a long fund-raising campaign and the construction of the garden.
These included designer Bernie Quinn, fund-raiser Becky Murray, Tesco, Red Owl Construction, Alison and Dave Price, Deborah Wilks, Joyce Cassidy, Fred Boulton, Jason Bloor, Tippers, RP George, AFS, Woodpecker Joinery, Fantasy Wire, Nicola Taylor, Toyota and Waitrose.
