Gateshead community to gather for vigil tonight.

Hundreds of people are expected to gather in Gateshead tonight (Fri 7th Oct) to remember a young boy who lost his life.

14 year old Tomasz Oleszak died in the early hours of Tuesday after an alleged assault with a blade

It's left people on the Springwell Estate in total shock.

Lisa Loan has organised a vigil at the Springwell Community Centre that she manages, tonight from 7:30am:

"I just want the family to know the estate is here for you, we're behind you, we're so sorry for you loss"

That's her message to a family left devastated by the death of their son.

This morning (Fri 7th Oct) Nortumbria Police said a 14-year-old boy, who can't be named, had been charged with murder, attempted wounding with intent and having a bladed article in public.

Lisa says the whole community has been hit by grief this week:

"It's absolutely horrendous, there's anxiety amonst the kids not wanting to go out becuase they're scared. Parents want their kids in before it's dark. I think the kids might not say, but it's having a knock on effect as it's where they live and play."

Tonight's vigil takes place less than half a mile from the area where Tomasz was stabbed.

Lisa says it's open to anyone, there'll be refreshments provided by local businesses and Gateshead Council have provided lighting as it'll be dark by 7:30pm:

"We're a small estate but we have a massive heart and come together. You don't have to have known the family to be involved tonight, just light a candle as a mark of respect"

It comes as a fundraising page set up to help Tomasz' family has recieved donations from across the country, at time of writing just under £20,000 had been donated - find out more here**.**

{{news}}