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Travellers say final farewell to two-month-old Olive funeral in Snodland

13:17, 09 August 2023

updated: 13:56, 09 August 2023

A two-month-old baby who died suddenly has taken her final journey in a princess carriage.

Well-wishers lined the streets to say goodbye to Olive Susan Devall as she was taken to her funeral.

The tot’s family were left devastated after she suffered a cardiac arrest on July 1 at their home in Coldharbour, Aylesford.

Olive is part of the gypsy and traveller community and her funeral at All Saints Church in Malling Road, Snodland, was expected to attract hundreds of visitors.

People in the area were asked to line the streets or tie a pink ribbon to their vehicles in her memory, or dress up for the occasion.

Mum Rachel Devall, 24, found Olive, who was born eight weeks early at Tunbridge Wells hospital, unresponsive one night when she went to check on her.

She’s described the outpouring of support from family, friends and strangers as “overwhelming”.

Olive Susan Devall’s funeral procession
Olive Susan Devall’s funeral procession
Rachel Devall woke up on July 1 to find her baby unresponsive at their Aylesford home. Picture: Rachel Devall
Rachel Devall woke up on July 1 to find her baby unresponsive at their Aylesford home. Picture: Rachel Devall

“We were totally shocked by the kindness we received,” Rachel said. “Not just from our community but everyone from different walks of life. It’s been amazing to see everyone come together.”

Olive’s family have arranged for a plane to fly overhead at around 3pm with a banner which reads “R.I.P. Olive – forever beautiful”.

Olive’s final journey was from the community centre via London Road, New Hythe Lane, Lunsford Lane, Leybourne Way, A228 Castle Way and finally Malling Road.

Olive Susan Devall’s funeral procession
Olive Susan Devall’s funeral procession

The heartbroken mum, who grew up in Snodland, said: “Olive was an absolute darling. She was just perfect in every way. She is a diamond that will shine bright in our lives.”

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