The thousands of yellow Find Alice Gross ribbons are to be taken down this weekend at the request of her devastated family.
The ribbons have become a powerful symbol of a united community and a reminder of the unwavering sense of hope which was finally and tragically dashed on September 30, with the discovery of Alice's body in the River Brent.
Following the confirmation that the body found concealed under logs and wrapped in plastic sheeting was Alice, the council immediately lowered both the Union and borough flags to half-mast over Ealing Town Hall.
The flags will also be lowered on the day of Alice’s funeral.
A book of condolence continues to be open in Ealing Town Hall so that people can pay their respects to the murdered teenager and the flowers and ribbons which festoon the clock tower in Hanwell are to remain for the time being.
Facebook admin for the Find Alice Gross Facebook page said: "The outpouring of love and support for Alice and her family since August 28 has been amazing. The yellow ribbons that have blanketed the area are enormously appreciated by the Gross family, and they have asked us to thank all the ribbon fairies on their behalf. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
" The sight of six thousand yellow ribbons worn by the runners, marshals and spectators at the Ealing Half Marathon was awe-inspiring. Each and every ribbon was made by hand with love, and we thank all concerned for their help and support.
"Thank you also to everyone, wherever you live, who has tied, worn or shared a real or virtual ribbon. Your support has brought comfort in these dark days, and you have done us all proud.
"Our yellow ribbons have been a symbol of all the best in our fantastic community. They have raised awareness of Alice’s disappearance and they have conveyed the hope of her safe return. For the last week they have served as a mark of respect following the heartbreaking news of her death.
"Now the time has come for us to take down the yellow ribbons. We and the family should be grateful if you could please help to take them down over this weekend. However, the ribbons, flowers and tributes at the Hanwell clock tower can remain for now. Thank you.
"On behalf of the Gross family the administrators of the Find Alice Gross Facebook group should like to thank each and every one of you for your continued, wonderful support. It means so very much to all of us."
