Over 1-thousand people have attended a vigil in Berkeley for the six Irish students killed and seven others injured in the balcony collapse.

Most of those who took part were J1 students staying in the area - with many of them bringing candles, cards, flowers and photographs to the service.

Father Aidan McAleenan from Co Down gave the homily at a memorial service in Oakland overnight.

He says the community has come together to support the families.

Meanwhile, investigators looking into the balcony collapse say dry rot may have caused the structure to give way.

Seven others were injured when it broke away from a fourth floor apartment during a 21st birthday party in the city of Berkeley.

Building inspectors have ordered another balcony in the same block to be removed - because it is also unsafe.

Father Aidan McAleenan says he's spending time with the students friends: