The village says goodbye to Emily Mott

Hundreds of people flocked to West Herts Crematorium today to say goodbye to an inspirational Abbots Langley school girl. Emily Mott, of Magnolia Avenue, died on February 23 after a two-year battle with a rare form of bone cancer – Ewing’s Sarcoma. Her parents Jacqui and Robin were by her side. The Parmiter’s School pupil was known for her selflessness after raising £300 for the Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust through making jewellery. She was also named Child of Courage at My News’ My Local Hero Awards in November.  Mourners dressed in purple, Emily’s favourite colour, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow played over speakers as they entered the building. Many well-wishers had to stand in the foyer as every seat in the crematorium was filled. Speaking to the congregation, Emily’s uncle Vince said she was a “beautiful” girl. He said: “Emily had it all. She was beautiful, talented, caring and loving and I can’t help but think what a special young woman she would have become. “A wonderful part of Emily’s character was her selflessness. She thought of other people and her love was shown in a number of ways. One example being her making jewellery and selling it on her birthday to raise money for Ewing’s Sarcoma to help other children with this terrible disease.” Vince shared some of his favourite memories of Emily, including a family trip to The Grove Hotel for a meal on her recent 13^th birthday. He added: “Last Christmas was the last time we were all together with Emily as a family and, as you may imagine, it was a very poignant time. Emily was in her element organising us around the dining table for Christmas dinner, ensuring that everyone had received their presents and we enjoyed her time with us all. “Her smile lit up everyone and every situation she came into contact with. You couldn’t help but be cheered by Emily and that smile.” Emily’s best friend Hannah also paid tribute at the service, describing Emily as the best friend anyone could wish for. She commented: “I lost not just my beautiful, thoughtful and special best friend, but she was also like a sister to me. She was taken away far too early. She was the one who kept me strong and the one I could tell anything to. I can’t believe she’s gone. It just breaks my heart and it feels like a part of me is missing. “Emily, I will make a promise to you now that I will live my life to the full, always giving that little bit extra just for you. I love you more than anything Emily, there will always be a place for you in my heart. “I can’t thank you enough for everything and for just being you. I hope you visit me in my dreams soon. Love you forever.” Music played during the service included Meryl Streep’s recording of Slipping Through My Fingers and Pharrell Williams’ Happy. Close friends and family visited Abbots Langley Primary School, where Emily had studied, after the service for refreshments. Full story to follow in April’s My Abbots News. Photos by Hoss Photography