FAMILY and friends gathered yesterday (Sunday, 27 June) to pay an emotional tribute to a young Tilbury woman who recently passed away.

Lauren Gardner was just 26 when she died on Wednesday, 16 June.

Described as a 'sister, daughter and best friend of many', the death of 'Lolly' as she was popularly known, has affected many in the local area and they came together at the Green Hill to comfort each other and release balloons as a gesture of condolence.

Details of Lauren's funeral have yet to be confirmed but a fundraising page has been created to help her family make the arrangements. You can make a donation via this link