Tree to be planted at Staffordshire school in memory of inspirational Stephen Sutton

The 19-year-old from Burntwood died in May last year following a battle against cancer.

Following his death, Burntwood Town Council held discussions with his family over how he could be remembered in his home town.

The tree, a 19-year-old oak to mark Stephen's age when he died, will be planted in the grounds of Chase Terrace Technology College.

Town council chairwoman Di Evans said: "The tree will be planted in the grounds of Chase Terrace Technology College where Stephen was a pupil.

"The school has agreed to it and his family. It'll be close to the road so people driving past or walking past will be able to see it."

Mrs Evans said the planting will take place at the start of next month and a commemorative plaque will also be unveiled.

She added a big yellow ribbon will be tied round the tree at the planting ceremony.

Money will be raised on the day and donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust, the charity Stephen raised millions of pounds for while he was alive.

Bosses at the town council have also launched a bursary scheme aimed at youngsters in Burntwood.

Mrs Evans added: "It is open to the two high schools in the town. It has to be someone from Burntwood and they can have any talent.

"We'll be looking at that in September. The bursary will run every year. Stephen was such a lovely lad.

"We wanted something to remember Stephen and this will."

Stephen's fundraising efforts raised more than £3million for Teenage Cancer Trust and a further £2m has been raised since he passed away.

Part of the cash is being used for 50 university scholarships to train people in cancer care.

Stephen drew up a bucket list of 46 things to do before he died, including playing drums at Wembley and getting a tattoo. His brave battle against cancer captivated the nation and he attracted the attention of a number of celebrities including comedian Jason Manford.

Stephen's mother Jane even accepted an MBE on his behalf from the Queen.