BEREAVED parents and siblings released lanterns on Herschel Pond in remembrance of their departed loved ones.

The event, organised by the Slough-based Vishaal Foundation, organised the event in conjunction with the 'Wave of Light' service, that marks Pregnancy and Child Loss Remembrance Day, on Sunday, October 15. The international event sees people across the globe release the lanterns at 7.00pm local time, creating a moving barrier of light around the world.

Hundreds gathered on the green beside Herschel Pond, many inscribing messages on their lanterns in remembrance of their siblings and children.

The Vishaal Foundation works primarily to support people who have lost people close to them, particularly parents who have lost babies or children. It was founded by Cllr Madhuri Bedi, who was forced to switch off her son's life support machine the day after he was born.

Cllr Bedi said: "The Vishaal Foundation creates events to honor and remember children – I created it after I lost my son 14 years ago, and found I had nowhere to go to for support.

"We welcome everyone, no matter who they lost. Its a place for everybody to come to love and grieve."

The event was also attended by Mayor Ishrat Shah, who was there in remembrance of her brother, who was murdered in Kashmir, aged 24.

Mayor Shah said: "It's a chance for me to remember my brother, as I never got to say goodbye properly. It's to send a message, and remember our childhood together."

The event was supported by a number of local groups and businesses, such as Pop Goes the Choir, Slough Borough Council and Friends of Herschel Park.

Mark Clements, 52, of Church Street, Slough, is area development manager for E Sargeant and Son Funeral Directors, Church Street, who were the sponsors of the event. Mr Clements said: "This event is for all people who have lost a child, no matter how it happened. More and more people come each year. Its important for us to come along, and our share happiness and sorrows."

Mr Clements was there to remember his daughter Lisa, who was killed aged 16 in a car crash on Christmas Day, 2005.