Applause rings out in Ribbleton in memory of Gary Carlisle

Balloons being released in memory of Gary Carlisle Pic: Karen See/Blog Preston

Hundreds of people came out in tribute to a Ribbleton man who is at the centre of a murder investigation.

A vigil was held in Ribbleton Hall Drive during Sunday 23 March evening to remember Gary Carlisle.

The 62-year-old died in hospital last week from injuries sustained in an attack.

Friends, family and well-wishers gathered to make speeches and release balloons in Gary’s memory.

Applause rang out as dozens of balloons were released into the sky around 6pm to remember Gary who was a well-known and well-loved member of the community.

A crowdfunder launched by his niece Leah Owens has already seen more than £2,000 raised towards giving Gary ‘the second off that he deserves’ via the GoFundMe page.

Leah said: “I would just like to do something to try to raise any help what so ever towards the substantial costs to give Gary the best possible send off in which he deserves.

“It’s proven that Gary was very loved in our community and was a big character, he would help anybody at the drop of a hat without question. And I just hope we can do the same for him now.

“It goes without saying, any donation no matter how small will be gratefully appreciated from us all.

“I thank you all deeply for your support and just hope that as a family we get justice for him and can hopefully give him the best possible send off to get some closure.”

A childhood picture of Gary Carlisle released by his family Pic: Leah Owens/GoFundMe

The police investigation

Mr Carlisle was attacked close to Moor Nook Primary School around 6.15am on Wednesday 12 March.

He was taken to hospital with serious injuries and later died.

A man in his 30s, a white British male from Preston, was arrested near to the scene on suspicion of attempted murder and has since been detained under the Mental Health Act.

Preston Police confirmed to Blog Preston they were continuing their investigations.

Det Chief Insp John McNamara, of the Force Major Investigation Team, said last week: “First and foremost my thoughts are with Mr Carlisle’s loved ones. His family are being supported by specially trained officers.

“This is now a murder enquiry and whilst we have made an arrest, I would continue to appeal to anyone who has any information or footage which could help us piece together exactly what happened to get in touch.”

Anyone who can help should call police on 101 quoting log 0181 of March 12.

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