THOUSANDS of balloons soared above York in memory of murdered backpacker Caroline Stuttle.

The balloons were released at Bootham Crescent before York City's game against Doncaster on Saturday in aid of the Rainbow Appeal.

A special colour cartoon strip of Yorkatt and Eric, created by Evening Press cartoonist Wolf, aka Richard Stansfield, was auctioned off to raise money for Caroline's Rainbow Foundation, which aims to help young backpackers abroad.

People paid £1 at add their name and address to a balloon. The owner whose balloon travels the furthest will receive a prize.

Updated: 10:51 Monday, November 17, 2003