Friends of Oxford schoolgirl Kyomie Williams who died after contracting meningitis last year are preparing a moving tribute.

One hundred pink balloons will be released into the sky above Barton on Saturday, June 16, in memory of the Cheney School pupil.

Kyomie died aged 12 on November 10 last year, after falling ill with meningitis. About 400 people attended her funeral at the Church of the Holy Family at Blackbird Leys.

Now friends of Kyomie and her family will be given the opportunity to write special personal messages on balloons.

The pink balloons - pink was Kyomie's favourite colour - will be filled with helium and released into the sky in a celebration of her life.

It will be part of the Barton bash, which will take place at Barton Neighbourhood Centre.

Event organiser Maureen Robertson said: "On the day there will be 100 balloons released in memory of Kyomie.

"It will be an opportunity to remember Kyomie who was a well loved member of the community.

"The day is all about having fun and bringing the community together, but I think it is also important to take a few moments out to remember those who can't be there."

Kyomie's brother Gavin, 21, who lives in Burnwood Road, Barton, was inspired to team up with two friends and start DJ-ing professionally after Kyomie died.

On the day of the bash the group called Kyi Kartel will entertain the crowds by mixing tunes from many different music styles.

Gavin said releasing balloons in Kyomie's memory will be a fitting way to remember her.

He said: "I think it is a good idea and it gives everyone a chance to remember Kyomie.

"I wanted to give up my time on the day and play some music because Kyomie was into her music and she was the reason I decided to really go for it professionally.

"Since she passed away, I wanted to put something back into the community."

There will be 45 activities and events taking place at the Barton Bash on Saturday, June 16. The Oxford Mail on Friday, June 15, will contain a full preview of events.