THEY shared their grief with many hundreds.

But there was an enormous sense of pride as Capt Lisa Head’s parents, John and Leila, shared their feelings at her funeral.

In a statement read to the packed congregation and hundreds more outside, the Almondbury couple said: “Lisa baby there’s not enough words to say how we feel.

“We had three bright shining stars in our lives, now we have two but you will always be by our side.

“You are so lovely, we miss you so much. It is like Dad said, you were as courageous as a lion but first and foremost you were our daughter. Love you.”

And in a jokey aside, her mum added: “And you were right, love, Dad did cheat in that last game of squash”.

Personal tributes were also read out on behalf of Capt Head’s two sisters, Helen and Jayne.

Helen, 23, said: “My big sister Lisa was caring, considerate and courageous but never took any nonsense from anybody, I miss her so much and love her even more.”

Jayne, 21, said: “I adored her and always wanted to be just like her.

“Lisa was my hero.

“Whenever I felt down she never failed to put a smile on my face. I’m so proud of her.

“Lisa is a huge inspiration not only to me but to everyone who knew her.

“I used to love our shopping trips to Birmingham when she wore me out by walking so much, and our trips home when we sang all the way.

“Her death has left a big hole in my heart and I’m so proud to call her my sister.”

Two Army friends, named only as Nicky and Leanne, had the congregation laughing as they recalled holidays and parties with Capt Head.

They said: “She was the life and soul of every party.

“But her life wasn’t just about alcohol, or food, or her never-ending smile.

“She loved her job, loved the work she did.

“She never quite realised just how exceptional she was.”

And another friend, Natalie, told how Capt Head had been her best friend since 2003.

“She always made me laugh and was the funniest person I have ever met.

“She was my brandy sour drinking partner and could drink anyone under the table, man or beast.

“I’ll miss you dude.”

Capt Head, who was born and brought up in Almondbury, was sports mad.

She played many sports at Almondbury High School, winning many honours, and proudly claimed to be the only girl allowed to play in the boys’ football team.