TRIBUTES have continued to flow in for Amber Hartland after the brave six-year-old lost her battle against a rare genetic disorder on Sunday night.

Amber died after her condition deteriorated at her family home in Greenmeadow, Cwmbran.

The six-year-old’s godmother, Lisa Davies, 34, from Greenmeadow yesterday spoke of the special relationship she had with Amber.

Mrs Davies helped co-ordinate a fundraising effort which began in 2003 that raised over £70,000 for medical equipment Amber required.

“I am absolutely devastated but relieved Amber went when she was ready,” Mrs Davies said.

“Amber really touched our lives and I am going to miss her so much.

“I have so many great memories of the fundraising events that took place for Amber that I can’t pick just one out.

“I would like to thank everyone who has ever helped contribute towards our appeal.”

Amber suffered from Infantile Tay Sachs, a condition which prevents fatty molecules breaking down in her body.

She was not expected to live beyond her third birthday, but a course of experimental medication, along with loving care from her parents Nick and Lesley, stabilised her for more than three years.

The illness affects the nervous system and leads to blindness and deafness at an early age, however Amber did not suffer these side effects.

Gwent boxer Gary Lockett, a school friend of Mr Hartland, took part in the Mick Morris half marathon from Blaenavon to Cwmbran Stadium on October 26 to raise money for Amber.

He said: “No words can really describe how sorry I am for Nick and Lesley’s loss.

“Raising money for Amber was the very least I could do to try and help.

“I met Amber on many occasions and without doubt she was a real fighter.”

Cllr Catherine Lewis, who represents the Greenmeadow ward where the Hartland family live, launched a petition signed by 4,000 people earlier this year, calling for decisions about Amber’s care to be left to her parents.

She said: “I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family of Amber Hartland.

“It has been a pleasure knowing Amber and she has been an inspiration. She touched my heart and the heart of the Cwmbran community.

“Nick and Leslie’s care for their daughter was exceptional and Amber will always be remembered.”