Brave youngster Vicky Daynes has lost her fight for life only two days before celebrating her tenth birthday.

The youngster, from Silverdale Avenue in Riddlesden, died in Airedale Hospital on Sunday after a five-year fight against Batten's Disease, a rare genetic disorder.

Her mother Julie has paid an emotional tribute to the girl who was an "inspiration to everyone who met her".

She said: "Vicky was a joy to have and such a big part of our lives, and we wouldn't have it any other way. She was so strong and was such a fighter that I think she gave inspiration to everyone who met her."

Vicky's grandmother Joan Daynes has also spoken fondly of the youngster who "enriched all our lives".

She said: "Before the condition started she was like a normal little girl - running around and playing on climbing frames.

"She was such a special girl and it was lovely to be around her, but also heart-breaking at times, especially when she was losing her sight.

"Everyone in the community was so good to her and she couldn't have had more devoted parents. The staff at Airedale Hospital have been absolutely brilliant."

A pupil at Crossflatts First School and then Branshaw Special School, Vicky was diagnosed with the incurable illness in 1994.

Keighley people rallied around to raise cash in a bid to send her on a dream holiday to Disney World in Florida.

Staff at Magnet, where Robert works, organised a series of fundraising events to raise cash for the youngster.

Julie added: "On thing I would like to say is that if she hadn't have had this condition we wouldn't have met so many nice people."

The funeral service will take place at 11am tomorrow in Riddlesden United Reformed Church, with interment afterwards at Utley.

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