IT was an “overwhelming and emotional” tribute to a Hampshire dad by hundreds of his friends.

About 150 people met at The Obelisk pub in Southampton for a |balloon release to remember Kevin Wyeth and mark the first anniversary of his death.

Father-of-three Mr Wyeth, 31, right, was killed in a brutal, unprovoked attack in a Southampton alleyway at the hands of cage fighter Damon Wright, who was convicted of manslaughter earlier this year, as reported by the Daily Echo.

Mr Wyeth’s family and friends continue to celebrate his memory and mum Linda Timber-lake said that the balloon release was a chance for his children to be more involved.

The 53-year-old, who has recently had a portrait of her son tattooed on her arm, said: “We were trying to think of something to do that was appropriate for the children because they were not involved much in the funeral as that was a solemn affair.

Daily Echo:

Kevin Wyeth's mum Linda Timberlake 

“This was more a celebration of Kevin and it was more special for the children as they could watch the balloons rise off into the distance.

“It was a beautiful day and it was lovely to see so many people. One person came all the way from Australia, which was amazing.

“It was so emotional. When you organise these things you never really know how many people will turn up and for that many to be there was just overwhelming.”