TOUCHING tributes have been pouring in for Rosie Veronica Mitchell after she lost her brave battle against cancer.

The much-loved Port Glasgow schoolgirl had been fighting neuroblastoma for the third time and it was hoped that she would be able to get treatment abroad.

The seven-year-old slipped away on Wednesday morning only days after doctors said there was nothing more they could do.

Her heartbroken parents announced the sad news.

They wrote on her Facebook page: "We are heartbroken. Our beautiful girl Rosie Veronica has gone to heaven this morning.

"She fought a hard fight but it wasn't to be - she is now pain free."

The community had rallied to raise £180,000 to pay for antibody treatment as part of an appeal with charity Solving Kids Cancer. This appeal has now been closed.

The same community is now offering their condolences to mum Donna-Louise Hurrell, dad Ross Mitchell and older brothers Dylan and Lucas.

Staff and pupils at Rosie's school St John's Primary said they had 'learned so much' from her.

They said: "We are heartbroken that our friend Rosie has passed away.

"She has taught us so much over the years, about how to be brave, ambitious and loving no matter what.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone at this sad time. We will forever be Rosie's Rascals."

Rosie's ballet teacher, Julie Kavanagh, who runs Elite Academy of Dance in Watt Street, posted a clip of Rosie dancing with members of Scottish Ballet.

She said: "One day we will dance again.

"Forever my beautiful ballerina, my heart will never be the same again.

"Our last dance was a truly special one."

She said that Mind Mosaic Children's service will be available at the studio today between 4.30 and 7pm to support pupils.

People have also been leaving floral tributes outside the dance school, pictured.

Rosie's dad and brothers' rugby club, Greenock Wanderers, said her legacy will live on.

They said: "We are truly heartbroken to hear the news that little Rosie Veronica found her wings.

"Rosie was such an inspiration to all at the Wanderers, teaching us never to give up the fight and so much more.

"Rosie's legacy will forever live on.

"Our thoughts are with the Mitchell family at this very sad time."

A fundraising mountain bike ride organised by Hugh O'Donnell in aid of Rosie appeal will go ahead as planned tomorrow.

He said: "Thank you to everyone who has donated thus far to Solving Kids Cancer for Rosie.

"Any future donations will be to support the family which is available here: https://solvingkidscancer.org.uk/campaigns/rosiemitchell/."

Mr O'Donnell has asked people not to use his Just Giving page until he can clarify how future donations can be channelled to Rosie and her family.

He said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Rosie and her family."