OVER a hundred people gathered in the street in Walkden for a candle-lit vigil to mark the first anniversary of the deaths of four children in a tragic house fire.

The home, on Jackson Street, where the fire occurred, was covered in tributes and banners yesterday evening as family and friends paid touching tribute to the four Pearson children.

Brandon, aged eight, Demi, aged 15, Lacie, aged seven, and three-year-old Lia were killed when their house was set alight by fire bombs.

The crowds watched on as pictures and video clips of the youngsters were played on a large screen. 

Their mother Michelle, who remains in hospital, also shared a moving video which was played to crowds. 

In it she said: "First of all, I'd like to thank the firefighters for what they have done. Second, I would like to thank the community for all their generous donations.  

"And last, I would like to thank everybody for coming tonight."

A short speech was given by Rev Gill Page, of St Paul's Church, Manchester Road.

She called the family and friends responsible for the vigil "brilliant" before leading the crowds in a prayer.

She added: "The funeral two months ago was the hardest one I will ever take. I don't want to do that again, I really don't.

"But, what you are doing as a family and a community here is amazing."

Zak Bolland, aged 23, and David Worrall, aged 25, were both found guilty of the murder of the children in May this year.