FAMILY and friends of Lisette Dugmore wept as they laid her to rest, four and a half years after she went missing.

Reverend Steve Benford of St Luke’s Church, said there had been a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the congregation and Lisette’s family since her body was found next to the River Ouse on January 13.

About 100 members of Lisette’s family, friends, colleagues and schoolfriends attended the service at York crematorium this afternoon, and Lisette’s sister Dion fought back tears as she spoke at the service.

She said: “Lisette was well known and liked by everyone who knew her. She was a daughter, sister, sister-in-law, auntie, great-aunt, neice, cousin, work colleague, schoolmate, but most of all, she was a good friend.

“She loved working with animals and would help anyone if she could. She loved spending time with family and friends, and would pass the time of day with all people she knew.”

Lisette was last seen alive on July 6, 2008, and a massive police search of the river was carried out shortly after, with no success. Her body was found in mud by the River Ouse at Acaster Malbis on January 13.

Rev Benford told the congregation of Lisette’s love for animals, and work with the RSPCA, when she would cover unsociable shifts, such as Christmas Day, which other people could not manage. He also said that “although we were expecting the worst, we were still hoping for the best. But it was not to be”, and said there had been times when Lisette had found life difficult, but she was now at peace.

Dion said: “Unfortunately, her life has been cut short, and now she is in Heaven with the angels. She will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her, but she will never be forgotten. She will always be in our hearts and thoughts. Good night, and God bless.”