The town of Sparwood, B.C., is holding a memorial service Sunday for eight men killed in avalanches one week ago.

The eight were part of a group of 11 snowmobilers who were riding in the backcountry near Fernie when they were caught in two avalanches last Sunday.

The mayor of Sparwood, David Wilks, had said he was expecting anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 people at the service at the town's arena.

A large television screen has been set up outside to broadcast events for the overflow crowd.

Those seated inside will see eight photos of each man on the stage and two snowmobiles propped on either side of it.

Family members arrived Saturday night to place personal items of the victims on eight tables set up in front of the stage.

Some of the mementoes — including skis, fishing tackle and fishing gear — show their love of the outdoors.

The service is expected to last about two hours.

Statements will be read on behalf of the Governor General, the prime minister, the premier of B.C. and the family members.

The three men who survived the avalanches managed to dig themselves out. Together, they decided it was too unsafe to try to dig out their eight friends. The three were rescued by helicopter.

After an exhaustive search of the area over two days, the bodies of the eight men were recovered. All of the men involved in the incident were experienced snowmobilers.