In a moving and tearful ceremony, family and friends gathered to share their memories and grief at the loss of youngster Charlene Downes.

The former St George's High pupil has not been seen since she waved goodbye to her mother at a town centre bus stop in November 2003, aged just 13.

Despite an exhaustive police inquiry, officers have never discovered what happened to Charlene.

Although never giving up hope, her family took the heartbreaking decision to arrange a memorial service at St John's Church in Blackpool.

Charlene's mum Karen said: "It was an absolutely beautiful service and a really nice way to send Charlene off.

"We picked out some of her favourite songs and had all her family and friends here to celebrate her life. I'm so proud of everyone who gave readings and I think Charlene would be proud of them too.

"I watched the whole thing through my tears and it was lovely to see so many people show up to share their memories of my daughter."

Family came from all over the country to attend. Friends and relatives gave moving tributes from the pulpit – reciting poems and memories of their times with the youngster – a picture of whom smiled down from above.

Among them sat detectives who had worked on Charlene's case, both as a missing person and after the inquiry was upgraded to a murder investigation.

Some of them had sat through a 12-week murder trial last year, which ended with the jury unable to make a decision.

The two men accused of murdering Charlene – who would now be 18 – and disposing of her body, have since been cleared of all charges.

Vicar Rev Helen Hornby also read a message of support from stage star Darren Day – Charlene's favourite singer – who could not be at the event as he is currently performing at sea on a cruise liner.

For many of those gathered for the solemn occasion, their emotions overcame them.

At the conclusion of proceedings four pristine white doves were freed from a heart-shaped wicker basket and released into the Blackpool skies by family and friends.

Dad Robert, who read a tribute in memory of his daughter, said: "When I was doing my reading I was struggling to see the sheet of paper through the tears."

The service began with favourite songs of Charlene's – including Puff Daddy's I'll Be Missing You – while flowers were placed on the alter.

Sister Becky, who made a touching speech during the service, said: "That was the most difficult thing I've ever had to do but it wasn't for me, it was for my sister."

In a moving tribute, cousin Lee Brown said: "There's only one thing I'd say to Charlene – thanks for being my cousin and God rest your soul."

Rev Hornby said: "The best memorial to Charlene is not anything made of wood, stone or marble.

"Her memorial is her family, friends and neighbours who will remember her best by her joy and her smile."