Hundreds of mourners attended the funeral of a gentle student who was beaten to death during a night out.

St Cuthbert's Church in Darlington was packed with people at Lee Walker's funeral today.

The 22-year-old died on Wednesday March 31 at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough after being found unconscious outside the Bar Size pub in Skinnergate, Darlington two days before.

At the funeral three tracks by U2 were played, Lee's favourite band and the congregation heard how the student was a popular person, and a good friend.

The vicar described how Lee enjoyed organising social events, such as barbeques, and was often the first to buy the beers for his friends. Lee, who lived in the Denes, was having a year out from his studies at Luton University, and was working at Capita.

He had ambitions to become a film director and enjoyed writing poetry.

Lloyd Smith, 29, of Corporation Road, Darlington, has been charged with Lee's murder and attempting to steal his passport, cash and personal stereo.

The case was adjourned by Judge Peter Fox at Teesside Crown Court until June 4 after hearing that more time was needed to complete forensic tests and serve prosecution papers.