A FALLEN Hammersmith hero will be honoured at a fundraising event next month.

Marine Sam Alexander from Skelwith Road, was killed aged 28 after he was caught by a bomb blast in the Helmand Province in May 2011, during his second tour of Afghanistan.

To raise money for Help for Heroes, family and friends are hosting a charity evening at Linden House on Friday, February 24.

Born and raised in the borough, the decorated soldier worked at the riverside venue while he was waiting to start his commando training.

His mother, Serena Alexander of Mylne Close, Upper Mall, said: "This last year has been hard, but we had always planned on running an event like this.

"Three of his colleagues were badly injured in the blast so we thought that it would be good to host an evening to raise money for the charity.

"I read a report of the incident afterwards and his comrades tried valiantly to save him, it was very touching.

"They are very brave boys."

"One of the girls behind the bar at Linden House suggested holding an evening there and we agreed it would be a nice location.

"We thought it was fitting as Sam used to work as a labourer while he was waiting to join the marines, so he was well known there."

Marine Alexander, who is survived by wife Claire and 18-month-old son Leo, was awarded the Military Cross by the Queen in 2009 for his bravery in charging down a group of insurgents to draw fire away from an injured colleague.

Having used all the ammunition in his machine gun, he continued his assault with his 9mm pistol until that too was empty - forcing the enemy to retreat.

The evening will include a champagne reception, a buffet dinner, and an auction featuring some highly sought after prizes, including a script from My Week With Marilyn, signed by actor Eddie Redmayne, who attended Colet Court preparatory school with Marine Alexander.

"We've sold quite a few tickets so far," said Mrs Alexander, "Everyone we've spoken to about it has been quite keen.

"We've received a signed copy of the My Week With Marilyn script, as Eddie was a classmate of Sam, and Ralph Fiennes is sending a signed photo.

"There are lots of wonderful items up for grabs."

Next month a plaque is due to be unveiled on Hammersmith Bridge in memory of the heroic marine.

Tickets for the event cost £50 a head or £75 for a pair.

For more information on purchasing tickets phone 020 8748 8550 or email h4h@linden-house.org