Victim of park attack remembered

Rob Maltby suffered head injuries in the attack

The boyfriend of a 20-year-old woman who died after an attack in a skate park joined more than 300 mourners in a celebration of her life.

Sophie Lancaster died two weeks after the attack in Stubbylee Park in Bacup, Lancashire in August.

Her boyfriend Rob Maltby, 21, suffered head injuries, but made a recovery.

In the humanist funeral service, Miss Lancaster was described as an "original" who embraced life as one great adventure.

Sue Davies, officiating, told the congregation at Whitworth Riverside Centre that Sophie's death was "painful, cruel and tragic".

"Sophie Lancaster was an original. A remarkable and true individual. An exciting fierce woman of high intelligence and understanding," Ms Davies said.

Sophie fell into a coma

"Sometimes stubborn and uncompromising with a strong moral code, someone who cultivated truth and beauty with equal ardour."

Mourners were invited to write farewell messages on the casket as her favourite music and a montage of photographs were shown on a projector.

Mr Maltby, whose friend read out a poem he wrote for his girlfriend, was among the first to pen a final goodbye as he kissed the coffin.

The pair, who were Goths, had previously been targeted because of the way they dressed.

Following her death, Miss Lancaster's parents Sylvia and John launched a campaign to highlight the hostility which Goths face.

The Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere (Sophie) memorial fund aims to raise money to teach young people about alternative cultures and to respect everyone.

Five teenagers have appeared in court charged with Miss Lancaster's murder.

Two 17-year-olds and three 15-year-olds, all from Bacup, are due to face trial at Preston Crown Court next March.