Friends and family of tragic student Ashleigh Bowes paid tribute to her at a special ceremony.

Falibroome student Ashleigh, 14, was found dead at her family’s house on Newquay Drive, Macclesfield, in August last year.

In memory of the book-loving student a memorial tree was planted and a bench erected at the Priory Lane School in Macclesfield.

Ashleigh’s close friends joined her family to mark the occasion. Her classmates also tied ribbons to the tree in memory of their friend.

Father Peter from Ashleigh’s church, St Albans, also joined the group to provide support.

Ashleigh’s mum Sue said: “This idea came from the students and it was so nice to see that they will now have somewhere to sit and think about Ashleigh and what she meant to them.

“The bench portrays her personality as it is so vibrant and I know that she would have loved it.

“Teachers from her primary school St Alban’s were there as well on the day and after the ceremony and some coffee everyone shared stories that they had about knowing her.

“It has just been the sixth month anniversary of Ashleigh’s death so it was a nice way to remember her and I am so thankful to the school and its staff and students for arranging to do this in her honour. And for allowing something so colourful on the school’s grounds. ”

Hundreds of people attended the popular teen’s funeral at the church after her death last year.

During that service Peter Rubery, Fallibroome’s headteacher, read a psalm in her memory.

After the tree planting ceremony, a school spokesperson said: ‘Ashleigh’s death at the start of the school year was a shock to the whole school community and her class mates decided to remember their friend by the creation of a quiet spot where students could spend a moment of reflection during the busy school day.

“We are still coming to terms with the loss of Ashleigh at the start of the year, she was a lovely girl and will be missed by her friends and teachers; this memorial tree and bench will ensure that Ashleigh will not be forgotten.”