MORE than 100 people of all ages held an evening vigil in loving memory of ‘inspirational’ psychology student and singer Eleanor Free.

Close friends and family of 24-year-old Ellie, who also went by the name Winters, swapped stories over drinks and more than a few tears as dozens of lanterns were released into the night sky  on Friday at Queens Park, Swindon.

Originally from Wroughton, the University of the West of England student had operated a lingerie business in Swindon’s Tented Market from 2010 to 2012.

In 2013 she moved to Bristol to study psychology and sociology, and died peacefully in her sleep on January 16.

Liz Sawyer, Ellie’s mum, said she was touched that her daughter had such a profound effect on so many lives.

She said: “She was vibrant, full of vitality, motivated and optimistic. I am so impressed, proud and pleased for her that she had an impact on so many lives.

“She wanted everyone to achieve and be the best that they could be. She motivated people and gave them guidance and a lot of laughter. She had brilliant comedic timing and was an amazing singer.”

Ellie’s hundreds of friends described her as an ‘angel’ who will be sorely missed.

Yasmine Johnson, 24, said: “Ellie was the most thoughtful, kindest person I had ever been around – she always put others before herself.

“There is a huge hole in my heart that will be empty forever.”

Lauren Fletcher, 25, said: “Ellie was the life and soul of any party, with an infectious laugh you’d recognise from a mile away.

“A one-of-a-kind beautiful and witty girl who has provided me with unforgettable memories.”

Paul Pearson, 41, said: “We all have those different and special moments that we will keep in our hearts forever. My favourite memory was her singing carols on Christmas morning preparing for all of her family to arrive. She had the voice of an angel.”

While 27-year-old Naomi DeWilde said: “Over the years my memories are filled with laughs and happy times – most of which I share with her.

“She was an inspirational young lady, so strong willed, bright and full of conviction. Whatever she set her heart out to do she achieved.

“She inspired me, made me see my goals are attainable, encouraged me to become the best I can, and for that I will be eternally grateful.”

Amy Massey, 25, said she would miss the banter and ‘rhyme time’ with Ellie, especially the puns.

She said: “I cannot comprehend what has happened. We had been through so much together, bad and good, and we were each other’s rock. We had plans for travelling this summer, it won’t be the same without her.

“I will live my life how she wanted us to. I told her I would be there until the end and I’m glad I could share the last moments with her. I have an emptiness in my heart without her.”

Effy Silvestre, a friend at UWE, said: “We were both from similar walks of life and she showed me that even with all the bad memories you can still wake up with a smile.

“Her smile was contagious and her sense of humour was enough to have us all in stitches all the time. She was the realest girl I’ve ever met and so generous with her time and her heart.

“I never realised how quickly you can feel love for someone but she made it so easy. She had so much determination and ambition and it hurts so much to know that her journey with us has been cut short.

“Everything about her was beautiful and I will love her always.”