Hundreds of mourners gathered to pay tribute to two teenagers who died in a horrific car crash in Fife.
Heartbroken friends and loved ones of Ethan King and Connor Aird lit candles, listened to music and released balloons at the memorial event in Kirkcaldy.
The large crowd gathered on the town’s promenade just hours after the death of 17-year-old Connor was confirmed by Police Scotland.
Connor suffered serious injuries in the Standing Stane Road crash last Sunday and was taken to hospital in a critical condition.
Among the emotional crowd were the parents of Connor – Brian and Marilyn – and Ethan’s mother and father Gary and Ashley, who were comforted by friends.
After the event, Mr King said: “Thank you to everyone who helped organise something tonight for Ethan and Connor.
“Got the send off they deserve. Also thanks to everyone that came along, turnout was simply amazing.”
Footballer Ethan King was pronounced dead at the scene of the November 11 crash, prompting his devastated friends to organise the seaside tribute.
But after Connor’s tragic passing, the event became a joint one for the childhood friends who both played for Glenrothes Athletic.
A statement from the football club released after news of Connor’s death said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of our former player and captain Connor Aird, who died Friday night as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident last Sunday morning.
“Connor was a member of the team for several seasons, and captained the side during the treble winning season of 2016/17.
“He was such a talented footballer, a leader, a captain, a team-mate and a friend.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Connor’s family at this difficult time. RIP Connor. Team-mates forever.”
Kirkcaldy High School rector Derek Allan, who knew both former pupils, also paid tribute.
He said: “It is incredibly sad that we have now lost Connor as a result of the incident on the Standing Stane Road last Sunday.
“He and Ethan were very close and their wide circle of friends has taken another shattering blow.
“Connor was a cheery and very sociable kid who got on well with others. He was one of the lads and like Ethan, he loved his football.”
A third passenger, Danny Stevens, remains in hospital for treatment to his serious injuries but is in a stable condition.
The 17-year-old driver of the Vauxhall Corsa was also taken to hospital. He was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving, however a police probe into the crash continues.
Sergeant Nicola Young from Fife’s Road Policing Unit said: “I would again appeal to anyone who may have information to assist our inquiries, and has not yet spoken to an officer, to come forward at their earliest convenience.”
