MORE then 200 people attended the funeral yesterday of a 15-year-old boy who died after suffering an epileptic fit.

There were tears in the congregation when a letter by Arron Smith's younger sisters, Alisha, five, and Chelsea, nine, was read by vicar Maggie Vigor at St Aidan's in Arron's home town of Billingham, near Stockton.

The letter, which was buried with Arron, talked of their brother's kindness and a poem by his cousins, Sammy and Kaye, referred to his sense of humour.

Reverend Vigor explained that Arron himself was always full of laughter and was popular with all who knew him.

Speaking during the service she said: "Nothing can ever hurt Arron anymore. Did you know that when a butterfly hatches there's always a tiny drop of blood left behind on the chrysalis? That is part of the pain of moving into a new life and that is what Arron has done. Speaking to Arron's family will be a memory I will treasure for a very long time. There was such love among them and for Arron."

A message on a wreath read: "We are so proud of you. You are gone but will never be forgotten, love mum and dad."

Arron Smith, a pupil at Billingham Campus School, died in bed on Monday, August 24. He was found by grandmother Marjorie, who had looked after Arron since he was a baby. He also leaves his mother, Tracey Weatherill, 35, who has described her son as a "very loving little boy" .

The popular teenager helped set up a karaoke and disco night for children at The Merlin pub in Billingham. He was diagnosed with epilepsy 18 months ago but continued to look after his grandmother. He wanted to be a firefighter in the Army

Friends are raising money for a graveside tribute to Arron, who would have been 16 this month. A fancy dress party and raffle will be held at The Merlin on Sunday, from 3pm.