A SPECIAL memorial concert is being planned in Evesham for the people who died in the M25 coach crash.

Mike Butler, of Bretforton Silver Band, is organising the event, and is keen to invite all those who travelled on the fateful Spring's coach, especially bereaved families.

The accident happened as a group of Christmas shoppers returned home from a day in France on Saturday, November 16.

"I would like bereaved families to contact me so that I may send them complimentary tickets," said Mr Butler.

The proceeds of the concert, which takes place on Saturday, May 17, at Evesham Methodist Church, Bridge Street, will go to the County Air Ambulance.

Five people were killed in the coach crash, including Graham Spring, one of the owners of the coach firm.

One of the drivers, Chris Sloane, and his wife Karen were also killed.

Bernard Coppin, of Beech Avenue, Drakes Broughton, Norma Evans, of Synehurst, Badsey, perished in the crash, too.

Jayne Wedgbury, of Alcester, died as a result of her injuries.

The crash happened at around 11pm when the coach, which was carrying more than 40 passengers, plummeted down an embankment. It skidded for about 50m before coming to a rest in a field near Slough, Berkshire.

At the end of last year WR Spring, which was co-managed by Mr Spring and his sister Pam, ceased trading after 54 years in business.

A three-day inquest into the accident will start on Wednesday, April 9.