A BRAVE little girl has been remembered by family and friends on the first anniversary of her death.

Lauren Brown, aged eight, died 12 months ago after a courageous battle with cancer and her friends and teachers at Ysgol Deiniol, Marchwiel, fought back their grief to commemorate and celebrate Lauren’s short life.

The school organised a balloon release on Friday when more than 150 balloons carrying heartfelt messages and memories of Lauren were released.

Headteacher Terry Walker said Lauren was “a tremendous young girl who was everyone’s friend”.

“Lauren was loveable and very jolly, strong and courageous,” he said. She touched so many people’s hearts in such a short period of time.”

To mark the occasion the school also organised a special assembly and the children all wore pink – Lauren’s favourite colour.

Lauren was diagnosed with a rare type of bone cancer known as Ewings Sarcoma in November 2008.

She won huge admiration and respect from everyone who knew her for the way she battled against the disease, but sadly lost her battle at Wrexham Maelor Hospital in February last year.

Her parents Clare and Alistair later set up the Lauren Brown Fund in her memory to raise funds for the hospital and to date more than £20,000 has been raised.

Clare said: “The last 12 months have been hard, but we are very fortunate with support from such good family and friends.

“There are certain dates in the year which are difficult, but as a family we keep going.”

The inspirational mum has also given her backing to a high profile campaign to save children’s services at the hospital.

Clare added: “We would like to thank everyone at the school for their tremendous support and generosity as well as everyone who had been involved in helping the trust – their kindness is greatly appreciated.”

So far the fund has enabled the family to buy several desperately needed items for the children’s ward, including a stats machine which can monitor blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels, as well as toys and games for the children.