THE REDDITCH community came out to support the friends and family of Marcus Meade, who was shot by police on Christmas Eve.
Candles were laid in his honour and spelling out his name in an emotional show of solidarity for him and his loved ones.
Everyone came together to honour the son, brother, nephew and dad they lost.
Chants of ‘no justice no peace’ could be heard across the crowd, with friends of Marcus taking turns to pay their respects.
The moving service was led by Dr Bishop Desmond Jadoo. Emotions were understandably high with many people in tears.
Bishop Jafoo called for ‘justice for Marcus Meade’ as he told the crowd they needed to be loud, strong and tough.
He said: ‘We want to know Marcus did not celebrate Christmas or the arrival of 2025.
“We are determined to get those answers and we will get justice.
“We all want to know they (the police) did what they did and we will get answers.”
He read from the bible before the crowd chanted ‘Marcus’ and ‘Marcus Meade’.
His dad gave an emotional account of the effect his son’s death had had on him.
“Normally I would know what to say. I would be loud, dancing, singing, playing music – but this year I did not get that vibe.
“He’s going to be missed by all our family. We are never going to be celebrate Christmas and new year again.”
He concluded by thanking everyone for turning out and saying: ‘I’m not supposed to be burying any of my children before me but that’s now what we face.”
Marcus’ mum was introduced as a ‘strong strong woman’.
Fighting back the tears, she said: “Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for coming out.
“We’ll get justice.”
Then followed chants of ‘No justice, no peace’ from the crowd.
Campaigners spoke and announced the family would receive a ‘significant sum’ from the National Family Fund to pay for Marcus’ funeral.
Debbie’s youngest sister and Marcus’ aunt Selina said: “What happened to Marcus was disgusting.
“Whoever has done this needs to pay – we will get justice.
“I love you Marcus very much.”
Curtis, Marcus’ little brother, also fighting back the tears, said: “I love you Marcus. We will fight for you no matter what.
“We will get justice.”
Marcus’ cousin said: “It doesn’t feel like one of us has gone.
“He shouldn’t have gone. He should not have gone.
“It was disgraceful what happened and we are not going to stop fighting until we get justice.”
Gary, Marcus’ oldest brother, said: “On Christmas Eve when I found out what happened, my world ended instantly.
“I couldn’t believe what happened. I haven’t been right since.
“We will get justice for Marcus.
“He’s in heaven now – at peace now.
“We have to draw comfort from that.
“I will love you Marcus forever.
“God’s got his back and he will help us get justice.”
