A business owner touched by the death of Woolwich soldier Lee Rigby is organising a fundraising night on Friday for the young man’s family.

Simon Moore, owner of the Wine Bar and Pizzeria in Deal, has planned the free music evening, which starts at 7.30pm.

He said: “We are very aware of the military music heritage of Deal. The Wine Bar was started by an ex-Royal Marine bandsman Brian Short and a lot of his former colleagues are customers here.

“We all watched the awful events beamed straight into our living rooms and saw and heard the incredibly touching and moving press conference given by his family a couple of days later. It really touched our hearts.

“So we decided that we wanted to do something to show that the community of Deal was supporting Lee Rigby’s family at this awful time and to raise funds for his family.

“Celebrating the music of Britain seemed to be the way to do it so we shall deck the bar out in Union Flags.

“We are also holding an auction and raffle so if any of the kind businesses and people of Deal would like to donate a prize, we shall gratefully receive them”.

The Wine Bar and Pizzeria is at 15a South Court, just off the High Street, and there will be music from Alan Faulkner and Bill Douglas, ranging from Chas ‘n’ Dave sounds through to wartime favourites, singalong classics and modern British songs. There will also be an auction and raffle on the night. For more information call 01304 449391.

• Two men have appeared in court charged with the murder of Drummer Lee Rigby, who died in south-east London on May 22. His inquest has opened and has been adjourned.