More than 300 people gathered to celebrate the life of much-loved Cockermouth mum Annalee Paterson, who died aged 32.

Family and friends gathered at All Saints' Church to celebrate the life of the popular mum-of-five.

Mrs Paterson, of Melbreak Avenue, died of cancer on August 7, three days after she and husband Robert marked their 10th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows.

Her coffin was led into the church, past a display of photos from the renewal of vows, by Mr Paterson's cousin Raymond, who played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.

The pallbearers, including her husband, were followed by the couple's children Holly, Troy, Jodie, Leona and Tristan, and other family members.

Adorned with floral tributes, the coffin was topped with smiling photos of Mrs Paterson as the service began.

Mourners honoured the family's wish for bright colours to be worn, in a display featuring everything from the purple running tops of Mrs Paterson's friends from Derwent Athletic Club, to pink socks as worn by her husband when they renewed their vows.

Roger Bye, of King's Church, who led the service, said: "In her all-too-short life Annalee has left a massive hole in so many people's lives.

"She had a massive heart for everyone and made such a big impact on everyone she met.

"This is a time to remember her and thank God for her life."

Despite her busy family life, Mrs Paterson had been studying at college and found time to work as a carer.

Mr Bye said: "Her battle with health issues began about 18 months ago but she was still determined to give the very best to everyone."

He spoke of the day she was admitted to hospital when, having gone to work, an elderly client recovering from a stroke was so concerned he handed a her note saying: "Go to hospital."

Mourners sang The Lord's My Shepherd, based on Psalm 23, a bible passage that brought great comfort to Mrs Paterson in the weeks before she died.

Mr Bye said: "She understood that sheep need shepherds for food, for everything.

"That's what she was finding out about Jesus, that he was truly there for her in all times, all seasons, all weathers, all situations - that she could truly depend on him. As her strength faded, her trust went deeper."

Amazing Grace was also sung.

Mourners listened to The Climb by Miley Cyrus, featuring the lyrics: "The struggles I'm facing, the chances I'm taking, sometimes might knock me down but no, I'm not breaking."

Monk and Neagle's Dancing With the Angels was also played.

Chosen by her mum, Michaela, it includes the lines: "There is so much that I don't understand but I know you're dancing with the angels, walking in new life."

Friend Ruth Watkins paid tribute to Mrs Paterson's loud, energetic personality, adding: "We'd always know when you were around or close by before we could even see you. I'll so miss hearing your voice and seeing your infectious smile.

"Your hope always shone through. You didn't give in for one single minute. You were a fighter and that fighting spirit meant you were able to spend some precious time and make special memories with Rob and the kids.

"You were a truly inspirational lady to all who crossed paths with you.

"You were never content to just sit and be. You lived life at 100mph and had so many aspirations.

"We want to thank God for you and the impact you had on our lives.

"We made you a promise to look out for Rob and the kids and we'll do that, even making sure that the kids brush their teeth and that Troy has a bath.

"Your shining light will never go out in our hearts. We'll miss you every single day but if we can show some of what you shared with us the world will be a better place."

Cockermouth team rector the Rev Godrey Butland led prayers.

Mrs Paterson's coffin was carried from the church to Footprints by Leona Lewis.

Mourners were invited to take packets of seeds, put together by her sister Rhiannon, to help her memory live on.

The funeral was followed by burial in Cockermouth cemetery and refreshments at the Conservative Club.

Donations were collected for the Marie Curie hospice in Newcastle, which cared for the family.

The News & Star attended Mrs Paterson's funeral with permission from the family.