Kendal is saying farewell to Poppy Atkinson this morning.
The 10-year-old died after being struck by a car on the pitch of Kendal Rugby Club on March 5.
The youngster, who wanted to be a footballer when she grew up, played for Kendal United’s Under-12s team.
Her family said she was a force of nature who was passionate about football.
They said: “Poppy was the focal point of our lives, everything for us revolved around Poppy’s love for football.
“Poppy touched so many lives, it was easy to see why, her energy, character, spirit and passion for football was infectious and touched huge numbers of people.
“Poppy was 100% determined to be a professional footballer.
“Many who know her, and who know her determination to improve and win, had no doubt she would achieve her goal to one day to play for Manchester United.
“Poppy idolised Ella Toone, Georgia Stanway, Mainoo and Messi to name a few.
“Poppy was a small, petite and beautiful 10-year-old, yet she played up an age group and proudly represented the Kendal United and county U12 teams.
“Poppy earned her place through her determination and her technical mastery on the pitch, her skill was envied by most that she played with and against.
“Poppy was sister to seven-year-old Edward. Edward worshipped the ground Poppy walked on, he only ever wanted to be like her.
“Poppy would coach and support Edward with his football, it was so beautiful to see.
“The hole in our lives and so many around us that Poppy leaves is enormous, we will never be whole again.
“This world has lost a spirit like no other, she was a force of nature. She was so special, she was too good for this world.”
People lined the streets as her funeral cortege passed by on its way to the church and her school, Old Hutton, has closed for the day.
