Balloon release and bike convoy as teenager is remembered

Family and friends of the popular teenager released 50 balloons in her memory last night.

And earlier in the day hundreds of scooter riders and bikers took part in a convoy in her memory.

As reported, Jade died in a collision on the A31 near Ashley Heath on Sunday February 24.

Several hundred people gathered at Carvers Recreation Ground in Ringwood on Saturday night to show their support, with numbers boosted by scooter riders and bikers who rode up from Bournemouth in convoy at 5pm to pay their own respects.

Kevin Morrison, Watch Manager and leader of Ringwood Young Firefighters, where Jade was a much-loved member, led the assembly in a two-minute silence before the balloons were released.

Jade's dad Billy Herald said it was an "overwhelming" moment when the balloons went up.

Lizzie Kirkhope, one of many of Jade's friends present, said: "It is something we can remember Jade by, she will never be forgotten.

"It was an emotional moment, I tried to hold it back but I couldn't.

"It is great to see so many of her friends here tonight."

Ride organiser Colin McDonald added: "It has been amazing to see such a great turnout.

"It is tragic that a 16-year-old girl lost her life in such circumstances, and we are all her to pay tribute.

"I'm hoping we will help them raise £1,000 at least for the family's chosen charity."

Police are still looking for a Volvo XC90 involved in the collision.