PERMISSION has been granted for balloons to be released in Evesham on Sunday as a mark of respect for little Gabby Grady.

As reported yesterday, a one-minute silence has been planned to take place in the Market Square at 1.30pm following the death of the five year-old last Sunday.

The youngster and her brother were in a car which plunged into the river Avon off Boat Lane on Thursday, February 11, leaving her trapped for around two hours until she was recovered by divers.

Her brother, six-year-old Ryan, managed to escape and was rescued from the icy water by police officers who jumped in to save both the boy and his father, Chris Grady.

Mr Grady is currently in custody on charges of attempted murder, although one indictment is expected to be amended to one of murder at a later date.

Thousands of people have joined Facebook groups to offer their condolences to Gabby's family and Sunday's event, which required official permission for the balloon-release, was organised on the social networking site, with more than 400 people currently signed-up to go.

Among tributes left in the town's Market Square are messages from Gabby’s relatives, including her mum Kim Wise, aged 36, of Boat Lane, Evesham.

A spokesman for South Worcestershire Police said: "We are aware of the intention for the people of Evesham to come together to remember Gabby on Sunday and we share in the emotions felt by everyone following the tragic events.

"Police officers will be present both to represent West Mercia Police and to help ensure the occasion passes off as everyone would wish."