Family and friends paid a touching tribute to an animal-loving Kingswinford schoolgirl as they took part in a memorial walk with their dogs.

Wordsley School pupil Olivia Higginson died of meningitis in hospital at Stoke on July 31 – just weeks after her 12th birthday. More than 100 well-wishers, including many of her classmates, turned out for a walk around Himley Hall and Park to celebrate her life on Saturday.

Olivia, who loved dogs, had two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Remi and Molly and Cocker Spaniel Blue.

Her devastated mother Sandra said it had been an emotional day for everyone involved but she was pleased with the turnout.

“I was amazed at how many people walked with us. It just shows how special she was and how much she meant to people.

“There were a lot of her friends from The Wordsley School and her old school Dingle Community Primary School.

“I am pleased we raised a lot of money but the main thing was that Olivia was remembered. We are planning some more fundraising events in the future,” she added.

Around £550 was raised and the money will go towards a fund to buy a portable ventilator for the children’s ward at Stoke City Hospital.

Mrs Higginson added: “She was a beautiful girl and is missed very much.”