BRIGHT balloons were released in a touching tribute to loved ones who have committed suicide yesterday.

Members of Swindon Survivors of Bereavement By Suicides (SOBS) gathered at the Kingsdown Crematorium remembrance garden for a special service in memory of those who have taken their own lives.

The group held the service around their Spruce tree, which was planted in December to provide a quiet place of solace where survivors could reflect on their loss.

More than 20 grieving friends and family members attended the service, along with SOBS trustees.

During the heartfelt service, conducted by Reverend Canon Simon Stevenette, poetry was read out by SOBS trustees and a hymn sung by the group.

Guests then wrote messages to their loved ones on heart shaped tokens, which were released into the sky with the 40 purple balloons

Swindon SOBS founder Jacqueline Parry said the day had touched all of the members of the charity.

“It was everything we could have hoped for, it was a beautiful and very emotional day. The group wants to give people a chance to reflect on their loss with other survivors and ultimately cope with and move on from their grief.

“It was a poignant moment seeing the balloons fly into the sky, and I think it helped a lot of the survivors there.

“The tree is now living and growing here, it’s standing strong, it’s organic and it is a very peaceful spot where survivors can come to remember their loved ones.”

Jacqueline, who set up the Swindon branch two years ago, said she struggled to cope when her brother took his own life in 2009.

“When something like that happens, you don’t know who to turn to, you don’t know who you can talk to, not everyone understands what you’re going through, This is a group where there is no pressure, there is no rush, when people are ready to talk, we'll be there.

“Sometimes it can be years and survivors will not know how to deal with their grief. Bereavement is a very up and down process which not everyone deals with in the same way, which we understand.”

Closing the service, Liz Swindall, founder of the Rachell Swindall Trust, which helps those affected by suicides, was presented with a bouquet. Liz donated £320 towards the remembrance tree.

SOBS provides dedicated support to adults who have been bereaved by suicide. The volunteer-run organisations gives help, support and advice to survivors of bereavement by suicides through monthly meetings.

For more information on SOBS, contact Jacqueline on 07543242332 or jackyswindonsobs@gmail.com.