A BENCH dedicated to the life of tragic Halesowen man Benjamin Morse has been unveiled on what would have been his 37th birthday.

More than 100 friends and family of the keen Arsenal supporter, who was killed in a hit-and-run on May 1 last year, gathered in his local pub, the Rose and Crown, in Hagley Road, to celebrate his life.

The bench – which has been inscribed with the words ‘Ben Morse (Morsey). 12-3-81 – 1-5-17. It’s just rock ‘n’ roll. Live forever’ – was funded with part of the £3,000 which was raised during a charity boxing event held back in October.

Another portion of the money raised during the boxing event was donated to the SAMM support group charity, while a second dedicated bench will also be installed elsewhere in the town.

Stephanie Pugh, a close friend of Benjamin’s mum Gay, said the family are hoping to make his birthday celebrations an annual affair, adding: “He was loved so much and we want to keep his memory with us after the tragedy.

“Gay and Ruth [his sister] have had a difficult journey to come to terms with the loss of Benjamin, so through our love and help we continue to remember him and bring new memories for her about his life.”

Before unveiling the bench, Ruth thanked her family and friends for the support they had given her since her brother’s death.

She said: “We are so grateful for all you guys. Your support, your messages, your constant hugs. I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Benjamin, who was a labourer, died after he was hit by a car being driven by Nidal Alboraiki, in Cherry Street. He was subsequently given a life sentence after being found guilty in November.

Following his death, Gay described her son as “cheeky” and “fun loving”, who had been her rock and kept her going “through the dark times”.