HUNDREDS of mourners filled a church for the funeral of a toddler killed in a road accident.

Demi Schwec was hit by a car as she walked with her cousin and a friend in High Street, Loftus, east Cleveland, on September 16.

Demi, who was two years and five months old, was taken to the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, but died seven days later.

Yesterday, her family and friends paid tribute to the bright little girl who had brought happiness to so many people.

Before the service, mourners continued to place flowers at the spot were Demi died, yards from St Leonard's Parish Church, where more than 200 people attended her funeral. During the service, Demi's cousin, David Guy, described her as the family's "precious little girl".

He told how the toddler had loved life, swimming, animals and singing along to her favourite children's videos.

"She wanted to know everyone's names and once she knew it she remembered it," he said.

"She was always willing to give hugs and kisses.

"Our hearts are broken. We have our memories, but there should have been more. We will always remember our little Demi."

Father Tim Whitwell called Demi's death a senseless tragedy.

He said he hoped lessons would be learnt from her tragic death so that other parents would not have to suffer in the same way as Demi's parents, Kevin, 21, and Heather Dass, 20.

A family friend choked back tears as she read a poem she had written for Demi.

Hymns included Morning Has Broken and All Things Bright and Beautiful.

Demi was then laid to rest at Loftus Cemetery.

Cleveland Police are questioning the 19-year-old driver of the car and his passenger.

* The Northern Echo attended yesterday's funeral with the permission of Demi's family.