THE FUNERAL of a father who campaigned tirelessly to urge knife carriers to put down their weapons will take place on Wednesday.

Trevor Woolley, the father of Chelmsford College student Ashley Woolley, 18, who was murdered by a classmate, died in America in September.

Shortly after Ashley's death, Mr Woolley, 47, of Witham, launched the Give 10 Pints for Ashley campaign to encourage people to give blood in memory of his son, who had received ten pints of blood in the battle to save his life.

He was also a board director at the anti knife Only Cowards Carry charity which is responsible for bringing knife amnesty bins to Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester and Tendring.

His funeral will take place at Chelmsford Cathedral on Wednesday at 11am.

Anyone who wishes to pay their respects is welcome to attend.

Wearing red in honour of his Give 10 Pints for Ashley campaign is also encouraged.