Fundraiser in aid of Halesowen 'hit-and-run' victim raises more than £5,000

Benjamin Morse, aged 36, was killed after being hit by a car at around 12.15am on May 1.

Police arrested a 21-year-old man on suspicion of Mr Morse's murder and he has been released on police bail.

The fundraising page on JustGiving website is aiming to raise £6,000 for the funeral of Arsenal fan Mr Morse.

So far it has raised £5,401 for Mr Morse's funeral.

A statement on the page states: "Due to the sheer number of Ben’s family, friends, local community and many others that have requested details of where they can donate or help in regards to the funeral /celebration of Ben’s life, we have decided to create this funding avenue.

"We have received an overwhelming amount of heartfelt messages of support that have been so gratefully and sincerely received.

"This has given the family the comfort they need at this very sad time. Thank you."

The family of Mr Morse, who is from Halesowen, paid tribute to him in a statement last week.

This said: "Benjamin was a kind and loving son, brother, uncle and friend who would do anything for anyone.

“He was sports mad, fun loving and an Arsenal fanatic and has left a huge hole in our lives; our family will never be the same again.

“We appreciate the support from family, friends and the community but would ask that the police are left to do their job. Anyone who has any information please contact the police."

Mr Morse is believed to have been walking in Cherry Street, Halesowen, when he was struck by the vehicle.

Medics battled to save his life but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two men, aged 32 and 19, were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and have also been released on police bail.

Det Insp Justin Spanner from Force CID, said: “Although the investigation is moving at a fast pace we still need to speak to anyone else who was in the car that was involved in the collision, do the right thing and come forward.

"Our thoughts remain with the family of Mr Morse who lost his life and specialist officers are supporting them at this difficult time."

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101.