BALLOONS filled the sky as hundreds of people turned out to a road safety event in memory of a young woman who was killed after a BMW hit a group of pedestrians at a car meet.

'Stay Static For Sophie' took place yesterday to raise awareness following the death of 19-year-old Sophie Louise Smith, from Radcliffe.

Visitors received road safety awareness at the car meet, which was organised by Sophie's family in the hope that lessons can be learned to prevent others from suffering in the way they have.

Sophie was killed after a BMW collided with a group of pedestrians at Trafford Park on May 31 last year — an inquest into her death was held last month.

Blue and purple balloons were released in her memory at the safety event at the City Airport and Heliport in Manchester.

Several people have taken to social media since the gathering, with one individual posting on Facebook: "Great turn out to remember how fragile life can be."

Another attendee, John Murphy, said: "The atmosphere was amazing but at the same time quite sad because of the reason we were there.

"I know Sophie's boyfriend Jordan Chidgey. The event was special because it was what she loved - both Sophie and Jordan - so to spend the remembrance in a way that they both loved was amazing.

"My thoughts and prayers go to both of their families."

The event was supported by Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Traffic police community support officers (PCSOs) were on hand to give advice and to help educate visitors.

Greater Manchester Police's traffic officers tweeted: "At Barton Airport for the Stay Static for Sophie event.

"Daniel is having instruction on the CCTV Smart Car, used for mobile phone and seat belt offences.

"Using your mobile phone whilst driving will get you six points and a £200 fine."

At the event, between 4pm and 9pm, traffic patrols also showed visitors how the speed camera equipment is used.

In a statement, Sophie’s step-father Harish Patel and cousin Sarah Van Der Merwe previously said: “With Sophie having been a static car enthusiast, we wanted to take this opportunity to raise awareness about road safety and ensure further car meets in the area remain safe for everyone to enjoy.

“We are really grateful that the local council and police force are also in full support of the event.”

They added: “In honour of Sophie, her Renault Clio has been transformed – in just 17 days – into the car she had always dreamed of."

Work was carried out on the car with help from local businesses and it was put on display at the event.

Inspector Burrill, from Greater Manchester Police, previously said: “We are working closely with Sophie’s family to raise awareness of road safety and prevent such a tragic incident being repeated. Greater Manchester Police fully support genuine car enthusiasts and support their right to meet and socialise in appropriate places, as long as this is done in a safe and responsible way.

"We are keen to educate anyone who drives in a dangerous and anti-social manner, and make them more aware of the consequences of engaging in such driving.”