EMOTIONS were flying high in Barnoldswick's Victoria Square on Sunday when balloons were released in memory of loved ones.

The event was organised by Barnoldswick and Earby Bosom Friends and raised £138.50.

Speaking at the launch, David Hartley, of Windle's Funeral Service said: "Some people can take a lifetime to get over those they have lost.

"The people that we have lost are always with us, they are in our heads and in our hearts.

"As you release your balloon it will disappear into the sky and eventually it will vanish but it is not gone from your minds - we know it is still there. Death is like that.

"On some different shore perhaps our loved ones are waiting to welcome those they have left."

All the balloons were released as the crowd cheered and watched them disappear.

Friends' member Mary Brennan told the Herald: "I thought it was lovely. There was a lot more people than we expected because it was all done at such short notice."

Mrs Brennan was so pleased with the response that the charity is planning to make it an annual event.

She added: "Maybe we could get a school choir to come along.