UK fans plan Docklands tribute to Michael Jackson

The worldwide response to the performer's death on June 25 has been staggering, with 1.5million people striving for tickets for his memorial concert in Los Angeles. And Brits who couldn't make it across the Atlantic are still keen to mark his passing.

Despite the rain, mourners gathered at The O2 arena yesterday (Tuesday) to watch the star's Staples Center send-off live on a big screen. In addition, around 200 people have already pledged to attend the Wetherspoons pub next week, including members of the MJJCommunity, the world's largest Jackson fan site.

Organiser Andy Roser said: "As MJJC is a strong community of fans, we decided to organise this vigil for anyone and everyone to celebrate Michael's life.

"MJJC members - along with a few other fan sites - will be meeting at The Ledger Building at 1pm to support each other through this difficult time.

"We will then travel to The O2 collectively at around 5-6pm, where the vigil and celebration will take place.

"There isn't much of a plan yet except to lay down flowers, light candles and inevitably all sing for Michael.

"There are several Facebook groups which have 500-600 members, and I expect there to be thousands attending these events. Nothing will stop us fans from descending upon The O2 and celebrating what Michael meant to us."

Ledger Building manager John Wall said: "We were going to be the official meeting point for MJJCommunity members around the globe for all 50 concerts. They were going to come in and do quiz nights and other events.

"There's nothing planned any more, but I've extended our hospitality to those coming down to The O2 who want to come down and say hello. They intend to have a silent vigil and pay their respects. They're still in a state of shock.

"I think it will be quite a moving event."