BANDMATES of Sam Killing, 20, who died after being hit by a train in Droitwich, are preparing to play a special charity concert in his memory.

Davis Armstrong, Matt Burdon and Damon Cox, who together form indie rock group Juice, decided to go ahead with the gig, which had been planned before Mr Killing's death, as a "celebration" of his life.

The show will take place on Saturday, January 23, at The Rainbow in Birmingham.

All of the money made in ticket sales, along with the band's fees, will be donated to the charities Mind and Turning Point.

Mr Armstrong, lead singer with the Birmingham-based band, said: "We already had the show booked and Sam was meant to play it with us.

"We thought instead of cancelling it we would make it a celebration of his life. He would have wanted us to play it instead of cancel it."

Despite only spending three months as lead guitarist with Juice before he died near to the Colford level crossing on Thursday, December 17, Mr Killing had already made a big impact on the group.

In tribute to his musical talent, Juice will play one of the songs he helped to write on the night.

"I feel quite privileged to do it because I do not really know his family that much, so it was nice to speak to his mum," said Mr Armstrong, who consulted with Mr Killing's family before deciding to go ahead with the show.

He continued: "Sam was well known around by anyone that played music in the Birmingham area and especially for his guitar playing in his previous band Babypink.

"Everyone that I've known who has met him has known that he was a very talented and funny guy. He was quite quiet but he had a really good sense of humour too.

"I'm sure that we can make this show something which he would have loved."

Along with a set from Juice, Droitwich band Oceania, Fox Chapel and Breeze will also play on the night.

Mr Killing, who lived in Droitwich, is believed to have studied at Droitwich Spa High School.

An inquest was opened into his death by the Worcestershire coroner on Monday, December 21.

Doors open at 6.30pm and for further details visit birminghampromoters.com/Events/juice-2/