'Thank God for her life and her love'

Friends and family of murdered backpacker Caroline Stuttle packed a tiny village church for her funeral yesterday.

More than 300 mourners attended Caroline's local church, All Saints, in Huntington, on the outskirts of York, while others, including her former schoolfriends and teachers, listened to the service in the grounds via loud speakers.

Caroline, 19, died nearly two weeks ago after plunging 30ft from a bridge in Bundaberg, 220 miles north of Queensland, after she was attacked.

During the service a message was read on behalf of the mayor of Bundaberg, Councillor Kay McDuff, who expressed her deepest sympathy.

She said: "While not everyone got to meet Caroline during her short time with us in this city, I can assure you she will lovingly be remembered by citizens."

The congregation also heard a tribute from Caroline's former psychology tutor at York college, Jo Taylor, who spoke of her "wonderful generous spirit" and sense of humour.

She said: "She glowed with warmth and compassion. Caroline was an especially loving person. She loved and was loved by friends and family."

At the start of the service a large wreath of flowers in the shape and colours of the rainbow was taken into the church.

Caroline's family had said earlier they would like to establish a fund in their daughter's name, which would be used to support other young people in realising their dreams.

The service was led by All Saints vicar the Reverend Chris Cullwick, who said: "Caroline was somebody who was reaching for her dream, she was fulfilling it and enjoying it when that dream was suddenly cut short."

Her family had been comforted by the hundreds of cards and messages of sympathy from people around the world, he said.

After the service, Caroline's father, Alan, an artist from Scarborough, said in a statement read out on his behalf that he thanked police in Australia and North Yorkshire for their help.

He added: "As an artist of over 40 years, I had not realised how many lives I touched, and yet Caroline's short life has touched hearts worldwide.

"I thank God for her life and her love."

* An inquest into Caroline's death was opened and adjourned in York last week, when a coroner heard that she had died from head and spinal injuries. She was attacked as she returned to a caravan park where she was staying with her schoolfriend and travelling companion, Sarah Holiday, 19.