IT will be a fitting tribute to a young Hampshire mum who will always be remembered as a free spirit.

Friends and relatives of Stephanie Bellinger, 24, will release 100 balloons in memory of her and her ten-month-old daughter Lili following their funeral today.

Stephanie and Lili were found with fatal knife wounds at their semi-detached house in Myrtle Avenue, Totton, in February.

A post-mortem examination showed that receptionist Stephanie died from multiple knife wounds while Lili died as a result of a single knife injury.

Their deaths stunned neighbours in their quiet cul-de-sac.

In a statement, Stephanie’s family said she was a fun-loving free spirit who was always happy and smiling.

They added: “Stephanie was a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt and mother.

“Lili was a bouncing, happy little baby who was a delight to be with, a little chatterbox who brought joy to our lives.

“There are no words to describe how we, as a family, are feeling.We now have a huge hole in our lives which we have to try to come to terms with.”

A touching message left at the scene by Nikki, John, Reece, Rheann, Jorja and Aidan read: “Two beautiful angels taken from us too soon.

“Steph, a wonderful person, friend and mother tragically taken from us too soon and will be missed.

“Lili’s precious life taken before it had began. Memories of us all together and never forgotten.”

The funeral will be held at St Theresa’s Church in Commercial Road, Totton.

■ Anthony Marsh, 21, has been charged with murdering Stephanie and Lili. He will appear at Winchester Crown Court on May 21