THE sun shone down on friends and relatives of a Halesowen man on Sunday as they held an event to remember him and raise funds.

BENFEST took place at the Rose and Crown in Halesowen to celebrate the life of Benjamin Morse who was murdered just over a year ago.

The event was organised not only to remember much-loved Benjamin, but also to raise funds for the group Support after murder and manslaughter (SAMM).

Friends and family of Mr Morse's have been fundraising to reach a £5,000 goal, which will pay for a retreat where people who have suffered a tragic loss of this nature, including Mr Morse's mum Gay, will get to meet each other, share experiences, and help each other.

It is not yet known how much the event, which featured live music, raffles, food, games, a tombola, and more, managed to raise but organisers are delighted, particularly with generous donations made at the event.

Among those who gathered to celebrate Benjamin's life were his mum, his sister Ruth, and his uncle Rob.

Close friend of the family, Stephanie Pugh, said: "It was an amazing turnout as family and friends celebrated the legend that Ben was.

"It was incredible to see how much he was loved by so many people, even people from other countries as far as Vietnam arranged Facetime to send their love and raise a glass."

She added: "Gay, Rob and Ruth are overwhelmed and I know this is what carries them and makes them smile, knowing Ben was a true legend."

Mr Morse died after suffering horrific head injuries when he was mowed down by Nidal Alboraiki on May 1 last year.

Unemployed Alboraiki was jailed for life on October 31 last year after a jury had found him unanimously guilty of Mr Morse's murder.