DOZENS of blue balloons were released into the sky above Andover on Saturday night (13 June) as part of an emotional tribute to tragic Anthony Smith.

Hundreds gathered to pay their respects to the 20-year-old, after a body was found in woodland at Anton Lakes last Tuesday.

In a statement on social media Mr Smith’s parents thanked those who came out in support, saying: “We would like to personally say a thank you to Anth’s most closest friends. Thank you to Ryan Rowe and Jordon Bissell for your amazing tribute. We are all overwhelmed but it is comforting to know how much he was loved by everyone. Anthony would of loved your tattoo it was a beautiful tribute and we love it too Ryan... we want to thank you all for being Anthony’s friend.”

Mr Smith, of Tintagel Close, went missing last Monday, sparking a huge search which ended when a body was discovered last Tuesday evening. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

According to friends £1,600 has been raised for Mr Smith’s funeral in the first five days alone. Meanwhile, a petition calling for improvements to be made to mental health services in the town has already attracted 1,000 signatures and scores of comments from concerned residents. A meeting was held in Breakers on Tuesday night giving young people the chance to talk and meet each other.