FAMILY and friends said a sad farewell on Wednesday to Morgan Leyland, the three-year-old Bolton girl who died of meningitis.

Hundreds of mourners packed into Overdale Crematorium for the service.

Morgan's parents, 35-year-old Robert and Sharon, 33, of Crawford Avenue, Darcy Lever, spoke lovingly of their daughter.

They recalled Morgan's dying words: "I love you all the world". And Robert said: "We will never forget all the happy times we spent with our daughter."

Members of the congregation wept as they were played a tape recording of Morgan singing nursery rhymes, including Baa Baa Black Sheep.

Dozens of flowers, some in the shape of teddy bears and hearts, were laid outside the crematorium. One floral tribute spelled out Morgan's name.

The mourners later queued for up to an hour to sign a book of condolence, some writing one line, others whole paragraphs, but each entry touched by grief.

Morgan was cremated in her favourite party dress and with a toy doll -- a Christmas present she never had the chance to play with.

As the service came to a close, the song Can't Take My Eyes Off You by Andy Williams was played over the speakers.

Morgan died after developing meningococcal meningitis, 10 hours after a GP at Landmark House medical centre in Chorley New Road, Bolton, sent her home saying that she needed rest.