Hundreds gather in Alva to pay tribute to schoolboy Scott Chiriseri

At around 4pm, hundreds of balloons were released into the air as a mark of respect to the five-year-old boy, who was found dead in his home in the town.

Scott was a student at local Alva Primary School. Many of his fellow pupils and their parents attended the event, with the small community still feeling a sense of shock and disbelief.

One of the organisers of the event, Madge Walker, a retired grandmother, gave a heart-felt speech before the release of the balloons.

She was put forward by another mother to organise the memorial.

Madge said: “We were just hoping to pay our last respects to Scott and pull together as a community.” During her speech she continued: “Tragically one week ago today the wee village of Alva had to come to terms with a sad and very tragic day.

“No village, no town or even any country should have had to deal with such tragic event on that day. Our thoughts and prayers must go to Scott’s family.

“As a community we are gathered here today to say our goodbyes to Scott.” Rev. David Fraser from Alva Baptist Church, where Scott and his family were part of the congregation, also spoke on the day. He said: “On behalf of the church I would like to thank everyone for your support. We are feeling the loss, all of us, so we’ve come together to pay our respects to him. We remember the family who are mourning and share that mourning.

“Scott was a young boy who had faith. His father came to the church, he is consoled and he is really touched to hear that this is happening today and sends his thanks.” A wreath was laid by Abbey Sanderland, P5 Natasha’s classmate, and Jack McShane, P1 Scott’s classmate, near the Christmas tree within the park in Scott’s memory following the speeches.

A similar event was organised for Sunday (14 December) by a different group for those who could not attend the Friday tribute.