JANET was an extrovert whose laugh used to reverberate around the school, said her former teacher at a memorial service held for the murder victim.

Des Callahan, a teacher at All Hallows RC High School, was addressing the hundreds of mourners packed into St Teresa's Church in Penwortham last Friday.

He described the young student as a lively girl with a 'loud laugh' who was loved by teachers and pupils. "Today, I miss her very much," he added.

Janet's close friend Vicky Cook said: "We will remember Janet for her humour and her energy."

And college pal Gordon Kidd told the congregation his friend was was 'a tower of strength, but she had a caring side too and that was beautiful'.

That caring side was revealed in a telephone call Janet made to her mother on the day of the Manchester bombing to say she hadn't made her planned shopping trip to the city. Janet then went to light a candle in church for her family.

The victim's body was not released for the service and police believe it may be some time before a funeral can be held.

Father Denis Blackledge, who led the service, said: "I suggested to her mum that she have the service now to give the young people a chance to celebrate her life. Today has been a great tribute to her."

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