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The funeral of a schoolgirl who was found dead in Manchester will honour her "bubbly personality".The body of Tia Rigg, 12, was found at a house in Cheetham Hill on 3 April. She had been stabbed and strangled.
John Maden, 37, of Dalmain Close, Cheetham Hill - who is Tia's uncle - has been charged with her murder.
Mourners will gather for a service at St James's Church on Great Cheetham Street East later, followed by a private burial.
All men attending the service will wear ties in her favourite colour, pink. Later, 12 pink balloons will be released at her graveside.
In a statement released through police, Tia's mother Lynne Rigg said: "She was my baby, she was my best friend and she was everything to me."
Tia's aunt, Susan Maden, said: "The whole family is obviously devastated and it is a terrible time for all the family and friends of Tia.
"She was our beautiful princess. She was such a bright, bubbly, very thoughtful girl who was kind and helpful.
"Tia would help anyone out and loved animals and children.
"I'd describe her as a girly girl, she loved clothes, make-up and music.
"She was a popular girl who liked sports like swimming, trampolining and netball.
"We will always remember her cheeky smile."
Mr Maden is due to appear at Manchester Crown Court on 21 June.This article is from the BBC News website. ? British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.