FAMILY and friends of tragic Katie Rough marked what would have been the youngster’s eighth birthday with the release of 200 balloons into the skies above York.

One week since the youngster died after being found with serious injuries hundreds of families let off colourful mementos from a playing field near her school, Westfield primary, and sang Happy Birthday.

A statement handed out by the family read: "The family wish to let everyone know that we are grateful to the community for coming together to celebrate Katie's birthday.

"They are also thankful for all the donations that have been made of the kind thoughts they have received over the last week."

A wave of shock has hit the community since Katie's death and people have been desperate to pay tribute in any way they can.

Mum-of-one Lisa Wox said: "I felt an overwhelming feeling to be here and the community wants to support the family.

"My heart goes out to them and I can't begin to imagine what they must be going through."

Jo Cooke, 47, added: "This has touched everybody.

"I have a seven-year-old grandson myself and it's a tragedy. People feel useless at a time like this and they just want to do something.

"This was a really good idea and it gave the children something to remember her by."

Mum-of-four Tracey Cunningham added: "It was overwhelming and really emotional, but it was a lovely thing to do."

All the balloons were supplied by Jane Lawn, of Balloons Above, in Strensall, while Morrisons’ Acomb store and Sainsbury’s and Asda in Monks Cross donated pens for friends and loved ones to write heartfelt messages before they were attached to the balloons.

  • A 15-year-old girl has been charged with murdering Katie and possessing and offensive weapon.

She will next appear at Leeds Crown Court on February 16.