GRIEVING relatives said farewell to a York mum who collapsed and died while in police custody.

Dozens of family and friends filled St Philip’s and St James’s Church, in Clifton, yesterday for the funeral of Toni Emma Speck, of Huntington, who died on June 2 after being detained by police under the Mental Health Act.

Her daughter, Caitlin, aged ten, mum Maureen, dad Stuart, siblings Michaela, Dawn, Stuart and Craig, and nephews Thomas, James, George and Jack clung together as they followed Toni’s flower-adorned coffin into the packed church.

The Rev David Casswell, who led the service, told the congregation the York mum, who was known to have an “infectious smile”, had touched the lives of many.

“She was funny and kind and at 31 hoped to reach equilibrium in her life. She was the person who could light up a room, but also suffered with depression. It is obvious she was an exceptional person and her death has come as a real shock. There are a lot of unanswered questions which only adds to the distress of Toni’s family. What is not questioned is how her family loved and cared for her and have been devastated by her loss.

“You have all come here today because her life touched yours in some way and that is a precious gift she gave you.”

A poem, chosen by Caitlin, was read by Toni’s sister Michaela Peters. It said: “Dear mum you are with the angels now, it was time to say goodbye yet still it is hard to hide the pain no matter how I try.

“For you were such a special mum with lots of love to share and knowing you’re no longer here is very hard to bear. And though the grief will pass and time will help to heal the pain, somehow life without you mum will never be the same.”

The service heard how Toni was an “excitable and happy child”, who loved new experiences and had a love for music. After leaving school, Toni pursued a career in hairdressing.

After suffering from depression, Toni was admitted to Bootham Hospital, leading to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

Toni was discharged in April, but was arrested on June 2 after concerns about her mental state had been raised.

She died after collapsing in her cell at Fulford Road police station sparking a probe by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.