A BRAVE schoolgirl given just a year to live after being diagnosed with an incurable cancer has died aged seven.

Little Laia Jenkins, from Wishaw, took a turn for the worst just days after her birthday back in September last year.

At the time, her parents Lee and Lorna were told her symtoms were likely as a result of an ear infection, but as time passed alarm bells were ringing. 

She was transferred to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital where her family were dealt the devastating news she had a brain tumour.

In the months that followed, a fundraiser was set up to provide Laia with as much joy in her life before her tragic passing on Thursday evening.

Glasgow Times:

READ MORE: Wishaw dad’s heartache as seven-year-old ‘baby girl’ given a year to live

Her school issued the heartbreaking news yesterday that she passed away, paying tribute to her "beautiful" smile.

Newmains Primary School wrote: "We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of one of our pupils, Laia Jenkins.

"To quote one of Laia's favourite films, Annie, 'you're never fully dressed without a smile' and she had such a beautiful one, it lit iup the room.

"Please join us by asking an adult to light a candle to remember that smile and honour Laia's memory at 7.30pm on May 7."

Glasgow Times: Laia with dad Lee, mum Lorna and sister EllieLaia with dad Lee, mum Lorna and sister Ellie

Laia suffered from Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) – a rare tumour that has an average survival time of nine months from diagnosis. 

Laia has three siblings – 12-year old Ellie, 21-year-old Chloe and Shannon, 23.