Hundreds turned out for a balloon release today in memory of Scarlett Vickers, a Darlington teenager allegedly murdered by her parents last week. 

Schoolmates, friends, family, and members of the community turned out to release red, purple and pink balloons in memory of the 14-year-old, whose death shook the town just over a week ago. 

Crowds gathered at Alderman Crooks Park (locally known as Tommy Crooks Park) at noon on Saturday (July 13) in what was a moving display from those involved. 

Emotional tributes were paid to the Haughton Academy schoolgirl; friends had written messages to Scarlett - telling her they love and miss her - on the balloons they released at 12.30. 

Flares in her favourite colours, red and purple, were also set off, as mourners comforted each other. 

The 14-year-old's parents, Simon Vickers and Sarah Hall made appearances in court this week after they were charged with murder.

Mother Ms Hall was granted bail this week, but no application has been made on behalf of Scarlett's father. 

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Teenage Ellie Close, who used to go to Haughton Academy, said she had turned out to support friends, who were reeling from the tragedy, and pay her respects to the "friendly" girl. 

Lilly-Ann Baines, 11, from Haughton Academy, said that the mood in the school has been "horrible" since the tragic news broke. 

She added: "You'd walk through the corridors and everyone would be so sad - people would be crying." 

Paying tribute to the "popular and polite" teenager, Haughton Academy headteacher Su Gill said that Scarlett was a  "very friendly girl, with a great sense of humour, she was popular with her friends and will be greatly missed by everyone at school."

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Elsewhere in Darlington today, a tree was planted in Scarlett's memory. 

Dozens of floral tributes and messages to the late teen have since been left outside her Geneva Road home.

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One tribute says the schoolgirl was "taken too soon" - adding that "no one will ever forget" her. 

Another adds: "Fly high gorgeous. You were a wonderful friend. Forever 14."

One penned: "Rest in peace Scarlett. You were one in a million. Forever 14, but also forever loved and missed."