Heartbroken friends paid a special tribute to “dancing angel” Ava Gray at a touching balloon release memorial on Saturday.
Loved ones gathered at Dalmonach Park in Bonhill where the yellow and pink balloons were released into the sky.
Anyone who knew the popular schoolgirl were invited to attend the event as the shocked community battles to come to terms with her tragic death.
They wrote special messages on the balloons before releasing them, with one reading ‘You are one in a million. Never stop smiling. Always keep dancing’.
Samantha Henderson organised the poignant memorial.
She said: “I only knew Ava a short time but by God she has left a huge hole in our hearts.
“She was an amazing young lady and I know that the whole of the area are going to miss her terribly.”
Afterwards, she said: “Wow! What an amazing turn out for our balloon release for Ava Gray.
“The amount of people who turned up to show how much she really meant to everyone was phenomenal.
“I personally would like to thank Ava’s family for allowing me and my sister to do this. I would like to thank everyone who helped us along the way. It’s greatly appreciated.
“But I need to give a special mention for Jimmy’s Cards & Gifts who have gone above and beyond for us.
“Every bit of detail was perfect and for that I’m extremely grateful.
“Fly high wee one. I hope your dancing in the sky.
“Love you lots.”
