A tree was laid outside Hawkinge Village Hall on Friday in memory of Paige Brown.

Four year old Paige of Blenheim Drive, Hawkinge, tragically died after being strangled on her own hairband while she was playing in her room on New Year's Day.

A short ceremony was attended by her family and members of the community as a poem was read out in honour of her life.

Mother Lorraine Ford said: "It is lovely to know the Hawkinge community have played their part by letting us lay this tree. There are no words that can describe our feelings.

"You would not believe how much it means to us for everyone to have done what they have.

"I will never forget my daughter. It is nice to have the plaque for everyone to remember her by but it does not take away the pain of her not being around anymore."

Chairman of Hawkinge Parish Council Dave Callaghan said: "Today was about remembering a little girl called Paige.

"The community got together and decided we wanted a memorial where we could all remember her and we thought that this space outside the village hall was the perfect place for that.

"Within this village there is a wonderful community spirit. When the chips are down we rally round and this is a way for us all to show our sympathy."