THE premature death of musician Tom Searle was a huge shock to those who knew him.

His band, Architects, have a fan base around the world as well as a devoted following in his home town of Brighton.

Tom had been living with cancer for three years and he sadly died over the weekend in Martlets hospice in Hove.

His story is a terrible reminder that cancer can affect anyone, no matter how fit or how young.

The one good thing to come from this awful tragedy is the wonderful fundraising effort that is ongoing from Architects fans.

In a heartbreaking message on Facebook, Tom's brother Dan urged the band's fans to give what they could to the Martlets.

Tom spent his final few days in the Hove hospice where he was made comfortable and looked after by the dedicated staff.

Anyone who has ever been to the Martlets or had a relative stay there will testify as to the incredible service the hospice provides.

As the hospice is not part of the NHS, it has to raise millions of pounds each year to keep going.

This usually comes through fundraising efforts and donations.

The money already donated by Architects fans will go towards making someone else comfortable in their final days.

That will be of huge comfort to his family and friends.

For those who loved the Architects, Tom's legacy will be his music.

But those unfamiliar with the band, his legacy will be raising awareness of the fantastic work of the Martlets and helping fund their ongoing work.