[Pictures: Dave Thomas]

A TOTAL of 100 biodegradable balloons with different messages written on them were released at a event in memory of Kev Lea.

The balloons were released to a live rendition of Kev's favourite song - Sam Smith's Stay with Me.

The event - which featured a bouncy castle, face painting, raffle, auction, DJ and bands - was held on Sunday, May 26 at Colwyn Bay Football Club.

Kev, who grew up in Old Colwyn and Llandudno Junction, took his own life in December.

As well as being in memory of Kev, who was dad to Theo, the event aimed to raise awareness and get the message out - it's ok to not be ok.

Andy Dwyer, one of the organisers along with Becky Mavin and Ben Hughes, said: "The day went very well indeed. We had about 800 people throughout the day at different times and had 500 at one time.

North Wales Pioneer:

Kev Lea with his son Theo. Picture: KevFest/Facebook

"There was amazing kindness and generosity shown by so many within the community and most knew Kev, which says an awful lot about the man.

"Our main goal was to raise awareness and coming together as a community that has far too many issues with suicide. It is a very difficult subject but we feel with the exposure we have had, we are in some way of making a difference."

On of the highlights was the balloon release.

"It was a very poignant moment," Andy added.

"We had a great performance from young Alfie Thomas who did Freddie mercury which was awesome. All other performers were excellent."

Andy said people had already approached him to speak about their mental health.

"We are going to look at setting up a phone line so people can call in private if they wish," Andy said.

"It means more than anything that we are helping people and the goal was very much mental health awareness,.

"We will take a break but in a few months, we'll aim for planning of #KevFest 2020."