The funeral of a Canterbury father, killed last month, will be held on Monday June 1.

Luke Brocklebank, 26, was stabbed to death in an alleyway off Forrester Close on April 16.

His family has extended an open invitation to anyone who knew Luke for the service at St Mary’s Church, Chartham.

Luke and his father Barrie Brocklebank used to spend time fishing near Chartham in the River Stour during his childhood, while his mother Tina Denby also lives in the village.

Members of the congregation are asked to wear bright colours.

"We want it to be a celebration of Luke’s life, not a dirge," said Barry.

He added: "Luke was a bright, colourful and lively guy and the girls in the family just want this to be a positive occasion after such turmoil."

The service starts at 11am and will be followed by a burial at Chartham Cemetery, before a wake at the George Inn, Shalmsford Street.

Flowers and donations are welcome for the Kent Air Ambulance.

The crew have also been invited as a thank you for their efforts in trying to save Luke’s life.

A teenager has been charged with Luke’s murder. Ikikibiya Manuel, 19, from Camberwell, south east London, has been remanded in custody and is due to stand trial at Maidstone Crown Court in September.