It has been 405 years today since the real princess who inspired Disney's most popular film characters died in the county.

To mark the occasion, a short commemorative service was held by Gravesham Borough Council at the the Statue of Pocahontas at St Georges Church in Gravesend where the inspiring woman is buried.

In the days leading up to her death, the princess was embarking on a trip from London when her ship stopped at Gravesend as it was the last place along the river to take on fresh food and water.

But by this time, aged about 20 or 21, Pocahontas had already been taken ill and was brought ashore either dead or dying.

She died on March 21, 1617 and was buried in St George's Church in the town centre.

Burial records showed she was placed in the chancel of the Church which was set aside especially for clergy and notable members of society.

Today, children from Bronte School and the deputy mayor, Cllr Peter Schollard, laid flowers at her statue in the Church grounds and Reverend Jim Fletcher followed with a prayer and blessing.

Cllr Shane Mochrie-Cox, cabinet member for community and leisure, who was also in attendance said: "Pocahontas is a part of Gravesham's history and we will always celebrate and commemorate her and remember her story.

"It is also a key part of our link with our twin town in Virginia, of which we are very proud, who also celebrated her life today."

The council, in partnership with the Church are hoping to have a commemoration service annually from now on, also celebrating the links that Gravesend has with its twin town Chesterfield, Virginia.