FRIENDS of a Newport man who died last week at the age of just 25, are raising money to help pay for his funeral.

Joel Horsell, 25, of Bassaleg, died suddenly on Wednesday February 13, devastating his family and friends.

"He was an amazing person," said Chloe Parsons-Young, a friend of Mr Horsell, who set up an online fundraising campaign to help mum Rose Horsell - who is being comforted by Joel's sister Gemma Behenna and his partner Cerys Williams - meet the funeral costs.

"He was such a gentle soul, people absolutely loved him. Every time he smiled it was like you got a diamond."

The campaign - more details can be found at www.gofundme.com/joels-send-off - has seen more than 100 people contribute £3,340 to date.

"His family and those of us who knew and loved him are heartbroken, and I felt we needed to do something to help out, because no-one really plans for when this sort of thing happens - it's awful," said Ms Parsons-Young.

A funeral service for Mr Horsell - who was a personal trainer - is planned for Wednesday February 27 at Langstone Crematorium, at 3.30pm. Friends and family will gather afterwards at the Friendly Fox in Bassaleg.