A MALVERN mum who is setting up a charity in memory of her son who died in tragic circumstances at the age of 23, has organised a Christmas bash to raise funds.

Jack Stephens, who lived in Droitwich before moving to Barnards Green, Malvern, collapsed after parking his car in the town's retail park in June 2015.

Despite the best efforts of passers-by and paramedics he could not be saved, and it later emerged a blood clot to the lungs had caused the sudden death.

After the tragedy the Gazette/News/Advertiser received many messages from friends, Mr Stephen's colleagues, and the business community as he had worked at the Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce.

Following his death the family, led by mum Kate Burston, set up the Jack Stephens "You can do it" fund to help support people who might not otherwise be able to study at degree level.

The fund's name has been chosen due to Mr Stephen's can-do attitude, and is in the process of being registered as a charity.

Ms Burston said the aim is for it to provide financial relief for year 12 students who are attending Droitwich Spa High School and Worcester Sixth Form Colleges, and planning to study at degree level but concerned about the cost.

The school and sixth form were chosen as Mr Stephens attended both, before graduating from Birmingham University.

Ms Burston said students will need to demonstrate their eligibility before applying, with the support being offered through small monetary grants to help to purchase academic materials, as well as a larger scholarship grants for a student studying politics - the subject which Jack gained his degree in.

Ms Burston said: "The charity isn't about replacing Jack.

"But Jack was one of those people who always stood up and said things should change for the better. He fought for change. He passionately believed in fairness.

"We want to support young people who we see that passion and drive in, who are committed to their studies, for them to make those positive changes in the world."

So far the fund has been supported through donations and various fundraising, including a golf day at Droitwich Golf Club, where Mr Stephens played.

But the charity's first organised event is a Christmas Bash, being held on Saturday, December 10.

The fundraiser includes a free drink on arrival, a buffet and a gin tasting competition before music and dancing.

The venue for the bash, which takes place between 7.30pm and 11.30pm, is Crowle Parish Hall, in Church Road. Tickets are available by visiting eventbrite.co.uk or by calling Ms Burston on 07957191085.