Parents of a six-year-old with an incurable cancer have paid tribute to their “beautiful princess”.

Joules Smith from Minster, on Sheppey, died peacefully in the early hours of Monday morning in between her mum and dad in their bed.

In May, the family received the news that their little girl was diagnosed with midline glioma, an aggressive brain tumour, and had been given months to live.

Since then, her parents, Joe and Elisha, had been doing all they could to make the most of the time they had left by taking her on trips and spreading awareness on social media.

But yesterday, her dad gave a tearful update on Joules’ seven-month battle in a TikTok video.

He said: “We didn’t leave that little girl's side.

“She was the bravest, kindest, most beautiful little girl and we miss her so much.

“Joules has been an absolute inspiration to everyone and I am so proud to be her dad as is Elisha, her mum.”

Last month, KentOnline reported how big-name celebrities and influencers, including Diversity, had joined in the trend where they film themselves dancing to spread awareness of childhood cancer.

Joe said: “We take so much comfort in knowing she inspired and touched the lives of so many people around the world – and that sounds insane to say that, but we reached everyone around the world with Dancing for Joules.

“That is thanks to you guys for sharing and for helping us raise awareness. This is something we have promised we are going to carry on.”

“Please if you are going to do anything, please let us carry on dancing for our beautiful little Joules because I know she will still be dancing.

“We just hope this journey will be someone else’s guidebook one day.”

The dad thanked those who had donated, held charity events and participated in the trend, as well as his family and their “unbelievable” support.

He added: “The medical teams have been absolutely insane. The Royal Marsden Hospital; I can’t thank you enough.

“They allowed us to have seven months of absolute happiness, laughter, and joking and the best holidays and we have met the best people.”

Joules will be laid to rest on December 27 at 12pm at the Garden of England Crematorium in Bobbing, Sittingbourne.

“We want to give that little girl the best and biggest send-off because that is what that little girl deserves.

“We hope everyone can make it and everyone is welcome. Please remember, it is never goodbye, it’s just a peace out.”