DOZENS of lanterns were released into the sky in memory of a 16-year-old boy who died in a horrific factory accident.

More than 250 family and friends gathered to remember Cameron Minshull who became trapped in machinery at a factory in Huntley Mount Road, Bury, last week.

His devastated dad Lee was among those who attended the vigil outside Cameron’s former school, Radcliffe Riverside High, on Friday evening.

Mr Minshull said he was happy with the turnout but was too upset to speak further.

Cameron, from Unsworth, Bury, had been working as an apprentice at the factory for three weeks when the accident happened.

Trish Clayton, whose son Joseph, aged 16, was a close friend of Cameron’s, said: “I’m devastated.

“He grew up with my son, more or less all his life.

“He was brilliant. He didn’t have a bad word to say about anybody.

“The number of people here is amazing — he would be so proud.”

Several people wore T-shirts with pictures of the teenager on the front and others laid flowers outside the school gates, where dozens of bunches had already been left, along with balloons, candles and letters. Family friend John Butterworth, who lives in Prestwich, said: “I think it’s tragic.

“Being a father myself, you think about things that happen like this. I just wanted to pay my respects with Lee.”

School friends hugged each other while others gazed to the skies and watched the lanterns float into the distance in tribute to the popular youngster.

Heartfelt notes were left including ones which read: “RIP mate, you’ll never be forgotten. I’ll remember the good days” and “Rest in peace Cameron Minshull. Gone too soon, will be missed by many” .

The accident happened just before 10.45am on Tuesday.

Cameron was taken by air ambulance to Wythenshawe Hospital where he died a short time later.

Greater Manchester Police and the Health and Safety Executive have started a joint investigation.