FAMILY and friends of tragic Caden Beggan paid their respects to the primary schoolboy as he was laid to rest after losing his fight against a blood infection.

Hundreds of mourners joined Caden's parents David, 44, and Angela, 39, at Dalziel St Andrew's Parish Church, Motherwell, Lanarkshire.

His devastated family, from nearby Cleland had hoped to share his final farewell with almost 50,000 Facebook users who followed his story on the web.

The service was due to be streamed live on the internet but it is thought the numbers of people trying to view caused the site to crash.

Brave Caden – who leaves behind two brothers Declan, 12, and Ethan, three – died in the arms of his parents last Tuesday after contracting a deadly infection last month.

The six-year-old's battle for life was followed by supporters on Facebook after he was diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia, a blood poisoning.

His distraught parents created the Facebook page to keep family and friends updated as he battled for survival.

Yesterday mourners wore bright coloured clothing and brought toy dinosaurs to honour Caden as his coffin was carried on a horse-drawn carriage.

At the service, Caden's uncle Scott Pattison gave a tribute to him telling the gathering of around 800 mourners of his nephew's bravery.

He said: "Caden was so courageous and compassionate. He was known as the dinosaur guy.

"He was a committed pirate and a cool dude.

"We are here today to celebrate Caden's life. We are full of grief but also full of love for Caden.

"Today will be a little different than a normal funeral - you can clap and join in on the songs. The music will be provided by Caden's uncle Gary Beggan and aunt Aileen Pattison.

"He inspired us with his courage. This should be a military funeral because Caden was a warrior and he died in battle."

Caden's brother Declan told the congregation of his amazing brother, saying: "Caden was, and still is, an amazing brother. He was a brilliant artist and could draw very well.

"He was amazing at building Lego and would spend ages building big models. We just wish he was still here."

A reading was given by Caden's dad and a message from his gran, Pam. It said: "Incredible is the word here. Have you ever heard of such an incredible warrior as Caden?

"He was one of a number of very special grandchildren. He will always be missed and will never be forgotten."

Messages from Caden's Facebook page were read out with tributes sent from more than 30 countries, including the US.

Caden's parents announced his death with a heartbreaking message on his Facebook site last week. His father posted: "Caden Riley Beggan. Born 29th September, 2006. Died 20th November, 2012, in Mummy and Daddy's arms. Thank you for all your support. Caden is alive for evermore."

The hymn O Holy Night, a tribute by Caden's Ladywell Primary school pals, shot to number 16 in the iTunes charts, ahead of hits such as Adele's Skyfall. Proceeds from the tune's sales will go to the Meningitis Research Foundation.

Caden was later buried at the town's Airbles Cemetery.