You will live on in our hearts forever
AROUND 100 people turned out to pay tribute to Manchester attack victim Georgina Callander at Southport beach on Thursday evening.
Family, friends and even teachers from Runshaw College which Georgina attended, took part in an emotional ceremony, releasing balloons over the beach.
The large crowd gathered at around 5pm, sharing memories of Georgina before falling silent for the release.
Ariana Grande fan Georgina was the first victim to be named in the aftermath of the suicide bombing which happened as the concert ended on Monday night.
The 18-year-old had previously met the singer and shared her love for the US star on social media.
Tributes have poured in for Georgina, who attended Bishop Rawstorne Academy in Croston, with the school describing her as a lovely and popular girl.
A spokesman for Bishop Rawstone said: “Georgina was a lovely young student who was very popular with her peers and the staff and always made the most of the opportunities she had at the school.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Georgina’s family at this terrible time, and we think especially of her brothers Harry and Daniel who are also former students of the school.”
Earlier in the week, a vigil was held in honour of both Georgina and eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos, another victim of the horrific attack.
Hundreds of community members gathered at a vigil in Mark Square in Tarleton to remember and pay tribute to the two victims.
A large community gathering was impeccable in observing two minutes silence for Saffie and Georgina, which was followed by a long round of applause.
Simon Martindale, who organised the vigil, has children at Tarleton Community Primary where Saffie went to school.
He said he was “heartbroken” to hear of Saffie’s death.
Despite 17 years’ experience in the police force, including dealing with the aftermath of the 7/7 bombings, Simon said: “When it’s on your doorstep it’s different.”
Saffie’s headmaster had earlier said: “Saffie was simply a beautiful little girl in every aspect of the word.
“She was loved by everyone and her warmth and kindness will be remembered fondly.”
“We are a tight-knit school and wider community and will give each other the support that we need at this difficult time.”