A VIGIL for Bella-Rae Birch and her family took place in St Helens yesterday evening.

Designed to give Bella-Rae's family "strength and hope", the vigil celebrated the life of the 17-month-old after she tragically died in a dog attack on Monday, March 21.

With the blessing of Bella-Rae's family, A&E Entertainment organised the event in Church Square on Wednesday, March 30.

St Helens Star: The vigil consisted of tribute songs and live musicThe vigil consisted of tribute songs and live music

Despite the wet and windy weather conditions, crowds gathered to listen to tribute songs, poems, live music, and have photographs with children's mascots.

Some attendees wore T-shirts with Bella-Rae's face on them, highlighting how they will never forget her.

READ MORE: Community pays tribute to Bella-Rae Birch

Amid the touching pieces of music - some of which were chosen by Bella-Rae's family - the live music performances were intended as a celebration of her life, rather than to mourn.

Anthony Goudie, co-owner of A&E Entertainment, said: "In December, we set up a vigil for young Ava White and it brought the whole of Liverpool together.

"This gave the family strength and hope [and] in times like this, young Bella-Rae parents and family will need all the hope and strength they can get. 

St Helens Star: Musicians Jack Bennett and Kiera Weathers performed at the vigilMusicians Jack Bennett and Kiera Weathers performed at the vigil

St Helens Star: Children's mascots came to take pictures with familiesChildren's mascots came to take pictures with families

"The only way we can [help them] is by feeding energy through others into them and showing them they have the support of the community.

"We will not come together to mourn Bella-Rae but simply shine light through St Helens and send her on her way to the angels with pure love."

To continue contributing towards the family's fundraiser to help cover the costs of Bella-Rae's funeral, you can donate here

St Helens Star: Bella-Rae BirchBella-Rae Birch