The first of a series of events in memory of murdered shopkeeper Vijay Patel will take place this weekend.

On Saturday (January 13), the people of Mill Hill and the surrounding areas will walk a candlelit vigil in memory of Mr Patel, who was assaulted on January 6 while working at Rota Express in The Broadway, Mill Hill, and died from his injuries in hospital.

The walk will also show solidarity and support for his family and give the people a chance to pay their respects.

In February, a memorial service will take place at The Sacred Heart Church in Flower Lane, which is just a few steps away from where Mr Patel was assaulted.

Father Michael McCullagh, the church's priest, said: "It is appropriate for the church to host the event as Mr Patel was our neighbour, the memorial service will cross community event, with all welcome to join us to remember a great friend.

"The most appropriate format would be for faith leaders from our local communities to say a few short prayers and invite people from the community to contribute suitable poems and other readings."

The service will take place at 8pm on February 10 at The Sacred Heart Church, 2 Flower Lane, Mill Hill, NW7 2JB, with doors opening from 7pm, and people are asked to bring their own finger food that is appropriate to various community groups, including Halal, Kosher and vegetarian.

Barnet Borough Times will be at the vigil on Saturday, January 13, which begins at 7pm outside the shop at 58 The Broadway, Mill Hill, NW7 3TE.

People are asked to bring their own candles and lights, though some spare will be available.