TRIBUTES have been paid to the bravery of a young Ferndown woman who recently lost a five-year battle with cancer.

Charlotte Read, 18, was diagnosed with the disease at just 13 years old, but faced chemotherapy, neurosurgery, and the amputation of her right lower leg with unflinching courage.

"She went through all her treatment with a smile on her face. She was so strong," said mum Patricia.

A lifetime of achievement was packed into the five short years between diagnosis in 2003, and Charlotte's passing on February 24.

Flying a plane, swimming with dolphins, and passing A-Level, GNVQ, and GCSE exams were among the brave teenager's many achievements.

"Charlotte was a driving force. She was so determined that the illness was not going to ruin her life," said Mrs Read.

Camping trips, zoo visits, and two special holidays to Florida are among the family's most treasured memories. "We had a wonderful day at Discovery Cove. The children were pushing Charlotte's wheelchair along the beach and she nearly fell out. We all laughed uncontrollably," said Mrs Read.

Two successful gradings were the products of a long relationship with Ferndown Jitsu Club that began when Charlotte was 11 years old.

"The club has set up the Charlotte Read Award for Endeavour," said Mr Read, proudly holding a large, wooden shield on which his daughter's name is inscribed on a silver plaque.

A combination of dedication and compassion from the medical staff who treated Charlotte often blurred the distinction between duty and friendship. "Martin was her second father," said Mr Read, referring to the efforts of Poole Hospital's Dr Martin Hussey. People criticise the NHS, but millions of pounds couldn't have bought Charlotte better treatment than she received," added Mrs Read.

Pastel balloons were released at the end of a packed service held to celebrate Charlotte's life at St Mary's Church in Ferndown.

"Hundreds of them went up and caught the sun," said Mr Read.

"We'd like to thank everybody for the support that they have given Charlotte, and that we continue to receive," said Mrs Read.

The Poole and District Children's Cancer Fund can be contacted at pdccf@yahoo.co.uk