A GRIEVING fiancee is preparing for a special remembrance service in memory of her partner who was killed after a concert.

French-born Reynald Duchene, 38, from South Woodham Ferrers, was killed after a night out with Paula Haddlesley to celebrate her birthday at the classical Concert in the Park in Priory Park, Southend, on Saturday, June 26.

Paula, family, friends and work colleagues of the chef will gather for the memorial service at the prestigious Gray’s Inn, in London, where Mr Duchene worked.

More than 200 guests, including friends and relatives from his native France, are expected to travel to the event, where Paula and her children will be giving a number of speeches about their best memories of him.

During the service, a voicemail recording of Mr Duchene singing to Paula will be played.

Paula, 44, from South Woodham Ferrers, said: “We met through the internet when he was living in France and then when he came to England, we met up in person and the rest is history.

“He used to sing to me down the phone and leave them as voicemails, so I will be playing one of those because it shows the kind of person he was.

“I want people to smile and remember Rey in a happy way.

“He did used to get up to some mischief with his co-workers and friends, but he was a greatly respected chef.”

The service will be followed by a special meal prepared by Mr Duchene’s co-workers.

The couple were together for four years and planned to move to Canada to start a new life running a business together. Paula added: “Rey worked as a chef for 22 years and had a passion for cooking.

“The people at Gray’s Inn arranged it all and are paying for everything because they wanted to do something for him, plus it is a chance for people to come together as his funeral was held in France in August.

“There will be a coach of people from South Woodham Ferrers travelling to London for the day.”

The memorial service will take place on October 29 starting at 2.30pm.

* Karl Wills, 21, from Cranley Road, Westcliff will stand trial accused of murdering Mr Duchene on November 16 at Chelmsford Crown Court.