Balloons were released this afternoon in memory of Nathan Lane, feared drowned in the River Thames.

Family and friends gathered at the Newbridge Causeway on Gordon Promenade to remember the 28-year-old at 4pm.

Earlier in the day at 1.30pm there was a minute's silence ahead of the Party on the Prom conducted by Sue Brewer, Gravesend's rural dean.

Not only did the balloon release, followed by a round of applause, commemorate what Nathan did, but the family also wants to raise awareness of the dangers the water holds to people looking to cool down.

Friend of the family Angela Marshall said: “We want to remember Nathan, a hero who lost his life helping someone else in a dangerous place.

“I don’t think people realise how dangerous the water can be down there and by us all coming together, I hope we can highlight the dangers of the river so this never happens again.”

Mr Lane leapt into the water last Sunday to help a young girl who had got into difficulty in the water.

He was swept away, despite the efforts of four teenagers and another man who rushed to save him.

Inspector Henry Sandhu, from Kent Police, issued an appeal ahead of the Party on the Prom event on Gravesend riverside which takes place tomorrow.

He said: "Whatever your level of swimming, we'd always say do not enter the water in any circumstances.

"Pay attention to the signs. It may be tempting to go in, but do not enter."

Fundraising events are being planned in a bid to recognise Mr Lane's heroic actions as well as those of the teenagers who dived into the water to help him.

The family would also like to recognise the work of the RNLI.

The balloons were provided by the Card Factory in New Road and Wilkinson in the Thamesgate Centre.

The wreath was designed and donated by Nikki Charlton from Slinders florist in High Street, Gravesend.

There will be more information and tributes as well as pictures from the event in next week's Gravesend Messenger.