Murdered Louise Smith's aunt says family is planning 'best send off' for 'beautiful' 16-year-old

Plans are in place for the 16-year-old's funeral at The Oaks Crematorium at a family-only private ceremony on Friday.

But family members want friends and members of the public to say their final farewell to Louise by lining the route. The Spinnaker Tower is set to light up purple.

Bikers in the area are being called upon to join the procession up to the crematorium from Highlawn Way at 9.30am.

Louise’s aunt, Hannah Welstead, said the day will be a fitting tribute to the teenager.

Speaking to The News, the 33-year-old, from Bedhampton, said: ‘It’s still very raw for all of us.

‘She was a very lovely girl – quite well-known in the Leigh Park area was alway smiling, it was her best feature.

‘Louise had beautiful blue eyes and was a really happy person. It’s devastating to not have her around anymore.

‘I told her that one day she would get to go clubbing with her aunt. Thinking about that now still upsets me.’

Louise went missing on VE Day, May 8, and had last been seen in Somborne Drive at around midday that day.

A major police probe ensued and her body was found at Havant Thicket on May 21.

Hannah added: ‘We all wanted to give Louise the best send off we could.

‘I messaged the Spinnaker Tower and straightaway their manager said he had been following the story and would do something for her.

‘I thought that was brilliant – Louise loved Gunwharf and the surrounding area so it really meant a lot to us.’

SEE ALSO: Trial set for Louise Smith murder accused Shane Mays from Leigh Park

Purple ribbons have been tied around lampposts in tribute to Louise throughout Leigh Park.

Floral tributes were left at the entrance to Havant Thicket after her body was found.

:: Shane Mays, 29 of Somborne Drive, Leigh Park, has been charged with Louise’s murder. He will attend a pre-trial hearing on July 15 at Winchester Crown Court, with a provisional trial date for November 10.

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