When Shane Watson died from head injuries following a vicious assault in an alleyway near the Beacon Estate last month, it sent shockwaves through Sedgley.

Now, local residents are invited to come along and show their support for Shane’s family and friends at a special family fun day held in honour of the popular 23 year old.

The event, which is to be held at The Crown public house in Wolverhampton Road, Sedgley, on Saturday, September 1, promises to be an emotional affair. However, according to organiser Cheryl-ann Stanley, it will also be a fitting occasion to remember Shane, whose family and friends say always lived life to the full.

Everyone is welcome to come along from 12 noon until 5pm and celebrate Shane’s life. Pay and display parking is available for motorists at the top of Bilston Street next to the Queen Victoria school and there are regular bus routes to Sedgley from Wolverhampton and Bilston.

Police are still appealing for witnesses who were in Monty’s Bar on the night Shane died to come forward with any information.

Shylon Wishart, 19, of North Springfield, and James Cartwright, 18, of Sandyfields Road, both from Sedgley, were charged with Shane’s murder soon afterwards and a trial date has been provisionally set for April next year.

More than 2,000 people have now signed a petition calling for the alleyway where Shane was brutally attacked to be closed. A recent Police and Communities Together (PACT) meeting at Dormston School was attended by almost 100 people, who came forward with numerous suggestions on how to improve safety in this and other thoroughfares in Sedgley.

Visit the Facebook page set up for the family fun day in memory of Shane Watson.