A FAMILY has paid tribute to their "little angel" who has died after a brave battle against leukaemia.

A message has been posted on the family's Facebook page to say Lily Filmer died at 2pm yesterday (Saturday) with her family around her.

The nine-year-old had been battling acute lymphoblastic leukaemia that she was first diagnosed with at the age of five in 2017.

In the post, that included heart and butterfly emojis, the family wrote: "I don’t really know how to say this but Lily passed away, with all her brothers and sisters around her.

"Our lives will never be the same without that beautiful smile and that sassy attitude.

"Fly high my little angel.

READ MORE: Plea to help girl, 8,with cancer make memories with family

READ MORE: "Devastated" Tributes after death of Cradley teacher

"We love you loads and loads Lily Bug."

Last month we reported that Lily had been moved to Acorns Children's Hospice for end-of-life care after waking up from a coma.

At the time mum Kayleigh Chapman, from Drakes Broughton, said her daughter had shown tiny improvement and they had been hoping she would stabilise enough for her to eventually come home, but said she was still very poorly.

Thousands was also raised on JustGiving pages set up by Mrs Chapman to raise money to allow them to do things together while Lily was “healthy” enough. When the first fundraising page launched Mrs Chapman, from Drakes Broughton, said: “The money is for other children as well.

"It’s all of us who are suffering."

After the announcement hundreds posted tributes on the family's 'Lilys freedom fight' page.

Sarah Wurmli said: "I am so so sorry Kayleigh.

"I don't even know what to say. She was an incredible little fighter and you are all inspirational. Sending love and strength to every one of you ."

Jo Alford said: "My heart breaks for you all and I am so very sorry for your loss.

"Lily, if there is one thing you taught us, that is to keep fighting right to the end and always with a brave heart - rest well little one."

Andrew-Hayley Barnfield added: "Absolutely heart broken to be reading this.

"Lily was a true fighter, may she rest in peace. Thinking of all family and friends at this difficult time."