HUNDREDS of people turned out to pay a touching tribute to shooting victim Wilf Isaacs with a balloon release.

Beloved grandfather Mr Isaacs was fatally shot dead on Thursday, May 5 at the Chubbard's Cross traveller's site in Ilton in a suspected double shooting.

Now, friends and family gathered at Ilton Cricket Club to release 100 balloons in his memory, on what would have been his birthday.

The first 49 balloons lifted a cricket club cup into the sky after it was won last season by Mr Isaacs' son.

The remaining 51 balloons were then released afterwards.

Heartfelt notes were attached to the balloons by family and friends. One said: : "Remembering you on your special day. You're my everything cousin and that is why I miss you so. Love Emmy, Andy and family."

A second said: "Time passes and we may be apart but cousins always stay close at heart. Love Kevin, Polly and family."

A police investigation has been launched into Mr Isaacs' death, and a post-mortem confirmed he died of a single gunshot wound. The incident sparked a national manhunt, which ended two days later after seven people had been arrested.

Another man was also injured, but his injuries were not life-threatening.

Charlie Broadway, 23, William Broadway, 18, John Broadway, 37, have all been charged with murder and attempted murder and remain in police custody. Bonnie Broadway, 29, have all appeared in court in relation to the incident.

Three other women, two aged 36 and another aged 26, were released on bail pending further enquiries.

A Facebook page was set up for the balloon release by friends and family of Mr Isaacs, and a post on the page said: "Wilf, you'll never walk alone, we love you always and forever, we will never forgot you and neither will your family God bless your soul."

A host of floral tributes and social media tributes were also left following the suspected shooting.

n To see more pictures from the balloon release visit chardandilminsternews.co.uk