Dozens of people were today expected to attend a memorial service for a backpacker who died in an Australian hostel fire.

Adam Rowland, 19, was one of 15 backpackers killed in a blaze at a Queensland hostel in June.

The Hastings teenager's death was confirmed by the local coroner's office last week after his body was identified using dental records.

Today his friends and family were gathering at the Marina Pavilion, St Leonards, for an informal celebration of his life.

Adam's mother Liz said she and the rest of the family had been overwhelmed by the expressions of sympathy from her son's many friends in the town.

She said: "We would like to thank them all very much."

Adam's funeral will be a private family occasion.

Mrs Rowland said: "This will be a celebration of Adam's life and people will be telling their own stories about Adam."

Mrs Rowland and Adam's step-father, of Sedlescombe Road North, plan to set up a trust fund in memory of their son in aid of local children.

In a statement, the family said: "This is a very sad time for our family but we would like to thank our friends, colleagues and family for their love and support and to pass on our thanks to all those who have sent us cards and letters, particularly Adam's own friends and colleagues.

"Those young people have truly touched our hearts with their love of Adam."

Today's memorial was to be attended by many of his workmates from ITL, some of whom were also his teammates on the firm's football team.

Another Hastings man, Martin Corkhill, 23, of Springfield Road, and his girlfriend, Lisa Duffy, survived the suspected arson attack which claimed the life of seven Britons.

Today's service was due to start at 3pm. The family have asked that donations for the trust fund be sent via ITL, Menzies Road, St Leonards, TN38 9BB.