Family and friends have said a sad goodbye to teenager Natasha Coombs.

The 17-year-old was laid to rest yesterday after her funeral took place at St Nicholas' Church, Harwich.

The Rev Peter Mann, who conducted the service, said more than 300 people attended. The song All I Want is You, by group U2, was played at the beginning of the service.

Helen Rosenthal, a friend of Natasha, paid tribute to her on behalf of all her friends.

One of Natasha's favourite hymns, Lord of the Dance, was sung.

Mr Mann said: "In the service we tried to capture the sense of sadness and disbelief but at the same time someone who was full of life.

"Tributes were given as well and there was a nice atmosphere."

Harwich mayor Dave McLeod attended the service and said: "It was an extremely sad occasion and the church was packed to the rafters.

"The loss of Natasha is felt by everyone and the service was very moving.

Mayoress Helen Gallagher said that as a mother-of-six, she found the day especially poignant.

"I haven't stopped crying all day, especially when you have children yourself, it brings it all home.

"My heart goes out to the family and they are in my thoughts," she said.

Natasha's body was found close to Manningtree station on August 10, after she had been missing from her Dovercourt home for two weeks.