The Rev Martin Abrams, who led the service and had known Ella all her life, told the congregation: “There were two very distinct parts to her life – the private, family little girl and the public profile she had which brought so much to so many.”

He said: “She loved the time playing with her cousins and friends.

“She loved animals and trips to the zoo, and planning the latest theme for her bedroom.

“She was strong, brave and determined.

“The publicity she and Sam attracted brought hope, health and well-being to lots of people. It started in a small way and over time literally thousands and thousands of people became donors or signed up to the bone marrow register.

“That is a tribute to Ella in itself.”

More than 400 people attended the service.

When the small church was full, people filled the adjoining hall and watched the service over video link.

A book of remembrance was opened for Ella, and the family asked for donations to the Manchester children’s hospital bone marrow unit, where she had been treated when she had her transplant.