Community comes together to celebrate eighth birthday of tragic York schoolgirl Katie Rough

Paul and Alison Rough attended a short celebration at 4pm in York to release balloons in her memory.

Hundreds turned out at Westfield Park, beside Katie’s school, Westfield Primary, to mark the youngster’s birthday by releasing the multi-coloured balloons.

Mr and Mrs Rough, who were accompanied by family and the Archbishop of York John Sentamu, let go of six multi-coloured balloons which they watched float away.

A tired-looking Mr Rough, 34, held up his partner, 38, who visibly inconsolable as they huddled together with his parents, Steve and Sharon Rough.

He kissed her on the head as they both let go of the balloons.

The huge crowds sang a chorus of Happy Birthday which filled the dark winter air, but Paul and Alison said nothing, instead handing out a statement which read: “The family wish to let everyone know that we are grateful to the community for coming together to celebrate Katie’s birthday.

“They are also thankful for all the donations that have been made of the kind thoughts they have received over the last week.

“We would ask that you please respect the families wish to be left alone at this private time - thank you.”

Earlier in the day, Mr Rough had posted on Facebook: “Happy Birthday princess.”

Katie was found in a field in York last week with severe injuries, and died in hospital shortly afterwards.

One mother, who was clearly upset by the event, said: “My daughter was in the same class as Katie. We’re just overwhelmed with emotion releasing the balloons - it is a very sad time.”

A shrine to Katie included her name spelt out in glass candles had been placed below a picture of the girl next to her dog.

Sweets and chocolate were also given out to pupils as a 100m queue form with parents and pupils waiting to sign letters to attach to the balloons.

Parents had organised the event and the biodegradable balloons had been provided by Jayne Lawn of Strensall-based Balloons Above.

A crowdfunding campaign for Katie has reached over £23,000.

• A teenager has been remanded into secure accommodation after being charged with Katie’s murder.