Mother of Katie Rough pays tribute to 'beautiful' and 'amazing' daughter

The mother of a seven-year-old girl who was killed in York has paid tribute to her "beautiful" and "amazing" daughter.

Katie Rough died in January after she was found with severe lacerations to her neck and chest on a playing field.

Her parents have now arranged a charity event which will take place in June to remember Katie and thank everyone who has helped the family.

Her mother, Alison Rough, told the Yorkshire Post: "She was happy to be outside and kicking in the mud. She was not a traditional girly-girl at all. She was a strong-willed girl.

"She was beautiful. She was amazing."

Mrs Rough, 39, said she wanted her daughter to be remembered for who she was rather than how she died.

She described how Katie loved going to the seaside town of Filey where she collected pebbles called her "special things".

Mrs Rough said her family has received support from around the world with people writing from as far away as New Zealand, with some messages getting to them just addressed to "Katie Rough's parents, York".

The planned event will take place at Acorn Rugby Club in York on June 9, from 5pm. The family said a memorial bench is also due to be unveiled at York Museum Gardens later in the summer.

:: A 15-year-old girl has appeared in court accused of murdering Katie. She is due to go on trial in Leeds on July 3.