A WREXHAM primary school has paid tribute to its four-year-old pupil Aria Hodgkiss after her brave fight with a brain tumour came to an end. 

For 18 months, Aria, from Rhostyllen, bravely fought diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) - a tumour of the brain stem which was diagnosed on the day of her third birthday. Tragically, she died in the early hours of last Thursday.

Despite her illness, she managed to attend her first day of primary school in September 2021.

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And Ysgol Rhostyllen, where Aria attended until she became too unwell, has paid a touching tribute to her.

Mair Darlington, headteacher, said on behalf of the school: "We were deeply saddened to hear the news that Aria, a little girl from our school passed away recently.

"Aria will always be remembered as an amazing, inspiring and brave little girl who loved coming to school. She was very independent and thoroughly enjoyed school life, she had a real curiosity for learning, as well as taking care of others and playing in the kitchen making the staff a cup of tea. We will miss Aria’s sparkly personality, energy and beautiful smile."

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She added: "Everyone in the school community would like to pass on their heartfelt condolences with the family at this incredibly difficult time.

"On Friday, we are inviting all the children at the school to wear purple, which was Aria’s favourite colour."

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Aria's mum, Melanie, has launched a JustGiving page in her memory to raise funds for Abbie's Army - a charity raising awareness of wanting to find a cure for DIPG. The fundraiser is also in aid Hope House Children's Hospice - which Melanie said was "amazing" in its support service for Aria. 

She has set a target to raise at least £1,000 and is already over half way there. To donate to it, please visit https://bit.ly/3VJvUl1. 

The fundraising page states: "Aria won her battle against DIPG as she gained her wings on December 1, 2022. She can now run free and be a proper 4-year-old girl.

"We are heartbroken but we will continue to raise awareness in Aria's name.

"If anyone would like to donate in Aria's memory we would like to divide the money raised to two charities. Thank you so much for your continued support."

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