An emotional memorial service was held today for Charlie Kutyauripo, the 16-year-old killed in Woodford Bridge on January 9.

Charlie was attending a friend’s birthday party in Ashton Playing Fields, Chigwell Road, when he was stabbed to death outside.

A 16-year-old male has been charged with murder and is awaiting trial.

Today family and friends finally held a funeral for Charlie at All Saints Church, in Ardleigh Green.

Traditional songs from Zimbabwe, the Kutyauripo’s native country, were sung and relatives also danced.

The former King Solomon High School pupil was then laid to rest in Corbett Tey Cemetery, Upminster, after.

Charlie’s elder brother Dennis gave a speech at the service, and told the Recorder he wanted to thank “everybody for coming out to support us”.

The 21-year-old from Collier Row Lane, Collier Row, said: “I thank God for having so much support around.

“I’m always going to remember Charlie as a kind person, he was always there for me.”

Dennis explained he was “at peace” in his heart as he knew Charlie was at peace to.

He added: “I’m not going to have that person around to talk to anymore.”