HUNDREDS of lanterns were released into the Darlington sky tonight (Wednesday, November 13) in memory of hit-and-run victim Danny Wake.

Scores of well-wishers said they would release Chinese lanterns in a touching tribute to three-year-old Danny, who died after being hit by a vehicle in Darlington.

He had been into town with his mother, younger brother and another young relative to pick up an Argos catalogue so he could choose his Christmas presents.

Lantern release events were organised from Darlington’s South Park, North Park and Lascelles Park, while dozens of people from across the North-East who could not make a planned event were releasing them from their homes.

Darlington resident, Kim Saunders, who helped organise the tribute said the event aimed to show the family the town is supporting them.

“It's been an amazing response, within hours we had hundreds joining in, we even have people abroad whose heart it's touched,” she said.

“They really do have everyone behind them and this town will do anything to help find the person that has done this.”

After the event, Kevin Nicholson, chairman of Firthmoor and District Community Association tweeted: "I've never been to something so amazing, such community spirt & strength in memory of Danny, what a tribute for him, unforgettable night."

The incident happened at 10.35am on Monday, November 4 at the junction of Neasham Road and Falmer Road, in Darlington, and police are appealing for witnesses to the collision to come forward.

An appeal has been made for the driver of a light-coloured Mercedes Sprinter-style van, which was believed to have been in the Neasham Road and Falmer Road area at the time of the incident, to come forward.

The vehicle is described as having distinctive red markings on the side and back.

Since the incident, hundreds of messages of support, bouquets of flowers and cuddly toys have been left in memory of Danny, which stretch for more than 30 meters along Falmer Road.

An inquest into his death will be opened at Crook Civic Centre tomorrow (Thursday, November 14).

A notice placed in The Northern Echo today (Wednesday, November 13) stated all are welcome to join the family for a thanksgiving service of Danny’s life at St John’s Church, Bank Top, Darlington, at noon on Tuesday, November 19.

The Northern Echo did not attend the lantern release event in accordance with the wishes of Danny’s family.