Liverpool Remembers Michael Causer.

Over 200 people attended Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral on November 29 to celebrate the life and pay their respects to 18 year old Michael Causer who died in August as a result of an alleged homophobic attack.

Many of Liverpool's LGBT community braved the freezing fog to join Causer's parents, grandparents, family and friends in remembering Michael in an emotional ceremony.

The Dean of Liverpool Cathedral the Very Reverend Justin Welby led the proceedings accompanied by Reverend Joyce Tyrer. The service was the first memorial for an openly gay person at the Cathedral for some time, and was particularly fitting in light of the Causer's Anglican faith.

Michael's favourite songs were played throughout the service including Ronan Keating's 'We've Got To-night' and Westlife's 'You Raise Me Up'. People were then invited to light a candle for Michael and share their memories of him with the congregation.

The Reverend Joyce Tyrer paid tribute to Michael's openess: 'Mickey never judged. He was live and let live. He was a bubbly, talented and loving lad.'

Tyrer also read a speech prepared by Michael's older sister Louise, which spoke of the family's gratitude of having had Michael in their lives and their love for him.

The Very Reverend Justin Welby highlighted the need to challenge hatred against people for simply being who they are, and asked the congregation to stand up against those who practice hatred.

James O'Connor and Gavin Alker both 19, have denied murdering Causer. Alker of Runcorn remains in custody, but O'Connor from Wigan has been conditionally bailed. A third person, 18 year old Michael Binstead from Prescott has also been charged with perverting the course of justice. The trial starts on January 26.

Matthew Fox from Liverpool's LGBT Network; who have helped raised money for the Micheal Causer Fund hoped that the memorial service would send out a strong anti hate message to Liverpool and the rest of the UK: 'It shows that the great and the good people of Liverpool will not tolerate homophobia and hate crime.'

To find out more about Michael Causer click here.