�The funeral of a young father from Harold Hill is going to be paid for by a local funeral firm – which read the tragic story in the Recorder.

As reported on June 29 (Romford edition), the family of Luke Harwood, 18, were planning a fundraising event to raise money for his funeral.

Five people have been charged with Luke’s murder and will appear at the Old Bailey in September.

Scott, one of Luke’s brothers, said that his family were trying to raise funds for a “big send-off” for Luke as they could not afford what they wanted.

After the article appeared, several people got in touch to ask if they could help the family, including the Mayer Funeral Home, Willow Street.

Owner Mary Mayer said: “Being both a mother and funeral director for many years, I have found these types of cases very upsetting and would like to offer to Luke and the family our services free of charge.

“My company would consider it a privilege and honour to look after Luke and the family at this very difficult time.

“I hope this gesture can, in some small way, help the family through this very difficult time.”

The firm will provide materials for Luke’s big send- off and the family will only have to pay third-party expenses like crematorium fees.

Scott said: “It’s fantastic that they’re going to help – hopefully it will all go really well.”

He added: “Thanks very much (to the Recorder) for what you put in and for your help.”

The money raised from the fundraiser held on Saturday (July 14) at the Saxon King pub, Petersfield Avenue, Harold Hill, will now be donated to charity – including Help for Heroes – and a trust fund for Luke’s baby son.

The date of the funeral is yet to be set.