A much-loved barman killed in a road crash will be remembered by family and friends at a fundraising event for his children this weekend.

Salt Rock Grill will host the fun day in memory of Larry Thomas, who died aged 34 on April 26, 2008, leaving behind wife Shirnall and children Desiree and Sianon.

The second annual Happy Hangover bash — to raise money to pay for the youngsters' education — will take place between noon and 5 p.m. on Sunday.

It will feature music from DJ JBird and nibbles. Waiter Al McIntosh said there would hopefully be face painting and a visit from anti-drink driving organisation CADA.

"We're doing this, first off, just so no one forgets him and as a fundraiser for his kids," said Mr. McIntosh. "It was brilliant last year. We set up the bar outside and it was loads of fun. Last year, we took almost a thousand dollars."

Salt Rock owner Ronnie Thorne will donate all bar proceeds to the education fund and wait staff will give any gratuities they receive that afternoon.

Mr. McIntosh said Mr. Thomas was still sorely missed at the Mangrove Bay, Somerset restaurant. "We still get tourists coming in and asking for him," he said.

"A couple from Southampton came in three or four months ago and asked for him. They were devastated when I told them. The day after the accident happened, we were taking orders from customers in tears.

"We made a little fountain for him last year and we put a little plaque up there."

The motorist whose van collided with Mr. Thomas's motorcycle was acquitted on a legal technicality in October of causing death by dangerous driving with excess alcohol and driving with excess alcohol.

Puisne Judge Charles-Etta Simmons directed a Supreme Court jury to clear Roger Bowen, who denied the charges, because the police officer who breathalysed him did not have the right documentation.