TV star Ben Fogle paid an emotional tribute at the funeral of a Kidderminster teenager who was “filled with heroism”.

Brave Victoria Price died aged just 13 after years battling juvenile arthritis, which left her in severe pain for much of her short life.

Despite her illness, which was diagnosed when she was aged four and a half and affected every joint in her body, Victoria raised thousands of pounds for charity, as well as becoming a star pupil at Hagley Catholic High School.

More than 400 mourners at Victoria’s funeral in Stourbridge last Friday heard a touching tribute from the adventurer, who met the teenager on a number of occasions including a visit to her school with fellow explorers, Ed Coates and James Cracknell.

In a statement, Ben said: “V burst into our lives like a firework, shining and sparkling with ferocity and magic.

“She made an impact on everyone she met and Ed, James and I were all captivated by her warmth, humour, intelligence and charisma.

“The stoicism of V was inspiring to the three of us and her short life was filled with more heroism than any of us will achieve in a lifetime.”

Victoria spent her last weeks in a Newcastle hospital receiving chemotherapy and bone marrow treatment to reprogramme her immune system but died peacefully with her parents, Julie and Martin, at her bedside on August 16.

Speaking at their home in Kidderminster, Julie, aged 39, said: “We feel hollow, she has left a huge gap in our lives.

“She was a wonderful daughter, a little star who was full of fun and put 100 per cent into everything. We are very proud of her.

“Everyone who knew Victoria will remember her for her inspirational outlook on life, her brains, her beautiful smile and her big personality.”

Her charity fund-raising and work to raise awareness of childhood arthritis was recognised last year when Victoria was awarded the Princess Diana Award for her ability to improve and inspire others.

The inspirational teenager also excelled in science and maths at her Brake Lane school.

Hagley Catholic High School headteacher, Ted Hammond, said: “Victoria was an amazing pupil with huge academic potential. She brought happiness to so many people.

“Her spirit and warmth will live with us forever. She will be greatly missed at school by the staff and pupils.”

Did you know Victoria? Leave your tribute below.