Archers radio soap star Tim Bentinck is joining a street march to remember a ten-year-old boy who was swept away and drowned.

Timmy Barry drowned with his carer in the sea off Brighton last year and family, friends and even strangers are rallying to provide a memorial to him.

Thousands of pounds have poured into a fund to construct a Timmy Barry playground and garden at Hillside Special School in Portslade where he was a pupil.

Supporters will be on the promenade on Saturday, May 19, for a sponsored walk.

Among them will be Tim, who plays David Archer in the hit BBC radio soap. He is a cousin of Timmy's grandmother, Jane Thompson.

She urged as many people as possible to join the walk, saying: "The theme is Timmy's garden and we are asking people, if possible, to wear hats with a flower or garden theme."

The sponsored walk, starting at 11am, is from the Palace Pier to Hove Lagoon and back again. Participants will be asking for donations from the public along the way.

Also taking part will be Timmy's mother Emma, his 14-year-old sister Amanda, his aunt Georgina and his step-grandfather Roger.

Timmy, who was autistic, was swept out to sea and drowned near Brighton Marina while on an outing last November. His carer, Janette Moss, drowned trying to save him.

Residents and businesses have pledged their support in creating the Timmy Barry garden, including Brighton-based digital print specialist XPS, which donated £1,000.

Timmy's former teacher Rosemary Graham said: "Timmy was such a happy, lively soul. I think the new garden will be a fitting tribute to him and a celebration of his life."

Anyone who can help with the appeal or would like to make donations should make cheques payable to the Friends of Hillside School and send them to the school in Foredown Road, Portslade, BN41 2FU. Alternatively call 01273 416979.