After being told that his brain tumour was incurable, Phil Baker has also helped arrange his own funeral.

But in an amazing twist, the Ashlawn School pupil decided to bring forward his own wake, so he could be there in person to thank everyone for their support.

On top of that, the football-mad youngster has also had to cope with the death of his mother, Chris, in December.

His father, Mark, said: "He wanted to plan his funeral and be involved - so he brought things forward so he didn't miss out.

"It may sound unusual but that is just an example of his positive attitude and how brave he is. He saw it as a party rather than a wake and there was a really good atmosphere."

The event was held at the Railway Club in Hillmorton last month and finished with the song 'For He's a Jolly Good Fellow', followed by 'Three Cheers for Phil'.

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The sports fanatic, who lives in Bromwich Road, Hillmorton, said he moved the event forward so he could enjoy 'his final farewell' with his friends and family.

"The whole night was great and really showed everyone just how brave Phil really is," said Mark.

"A lot of people gave up their time for free to organise the night and my son and I would like to thank everyone for all their help and everyone who came."

Phil, who played a wide range of sports at a high level, was diagnosed with with a brain tumour two years ago but his family said he has shown a 'great strength of character' to get him through. Doctors expect him to live for another 'few months'.

He has asked everyone to attend his funeral wearing football shirts and his coffin will be decorated in an Aston Villa Football Club emblem. He will be brought into the funeral to the tune of football song 'Vindaloo'.