HUNDREDS of colourful balloons were released from Carlow town park last week on World Suicide Prevention Day, when people gathered to remember family members and friends who died under tragic circumstances. The balloon release was part of a week-long anti-suicide campaign and was organised by Carlow town resident Rita Cassin.

“People just like to come along, write their message on the balloon and let the balloon go,” she explained. “It was chance to remember those who we’ve lost but, really, we think about them all the time.”

Rita helped to set up the anti-suicide support and listening group Talk It Over and this is the second year that she has organised the release of balloons in the town park. More than 200 people attended the quiet and peaceful event, at which Rita said a few words.

This year, the proceeds from the balloon release are being donated to three worthy causes: the Carlow Carers’ Association, the Killeshin/Graiguecullen Lourdes Invalid Fund and Pieta House.

Rita would like to thank Anne Lambert from Newsworld newsagency, Burrin Street, Carlow, who sold the balloons ahead of the event, her daughter Nicole who sang, and all who supported it in any way.