NEW friendships have been formed between Darwen and Sweden after a schoolgirl from the town released a balloon.

Keeley Hutchinson, ten, who attends Avondale Primary School, attached her name and address to a helium balloon and released it at Sudellside Neighbourhood Centre at a neighbourhood priorities campaign event.

It was discovered by 14-year-old Anton Lindh near his home in Varnhem village, Sweden, who took it into his school.

Anton's teacher asked his schoolfriends if they would like to write to children in Darwen and the children have been exchanging photographs and letters.

Coun Salim Lorgat, executive member for housing and neighbourhoods for the council, said: "Coincidentally, Keeley released a balloon which said friendlier' which is very fitting as it was the balloon Anton found ."