FRIENDS of the late Steve Ford are holding a memorial event tonight (Tuesday May 21) at Brierley Hill Civic Hall to celebrate his life and achievements.

The event, open to family, friends and anyone who knew him, will take place Steve died in December, just a few days after helping to bring smiles to the faces of families and children less fortunate as part of the Dudley CVS 'Operation Santa' appeal.

A community champion, he was involved with Dudley Hospital Radio for many years, working tirelessly to help make dreams come true for young people on the children’s ward at Russells Hall Hospital.

Dave Brownhill, a life-long friend and founder of Dudley Hospital Radio, said: "Steve helped to make over five hundred dreams come true for poorly youngsters on the children's ward through his charity, 'Wishing Well'. It really changed his life forever."

Over the years, Steve arranged helicopter and limousine rides, pop star meet and greets, dream job taster days and he even organised the chance for one child to enjoy a flight around the Bay of Biscay on Concorde.

Eileen Fielding, Volunteer Centre Development Officer at Dudley CVS which coordinates the borough's 'Operation Santa' appeal, described Steve as 'the ultimate super volunteer' who had a 'lovely positive soul'.

She added: "His warm personality made him really popular. He was one in a million."

The memorial event is free to attend and takes the form of an evening of memories. Those in attendance can join in the 'open mic' style sessions and share their memories.

To book a place and help with numbers visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/steve-ford-memorial-tickets-59381893843 or call Dave on 07970 688645.

A memorial service for Steve was also due to take place at Russells Hall Hospital this morning (Tuesday).