Donald Trump is en route to Arizona to attend the funeral of Charlie Kirk.

Mr Kirk, aged 31, was shot and killed while attending an event at Utah Valley University earlier this month.

A memorial service will be held for the Conservative activist at State Farm Stadium in Arizona from 7pm (BST).

Speaking to reporters as he prepared to depart for the event, Mr Trump said: "[Charlie Kirk] was a young man, but a great man and we look forward to it. We want to look at it as a time of healing.

"That something like this could have happened is not even believable, so it is going to be a very interesting day, a very tough day."

Vice President JD Vance and other prominent allies are expected to be in attendance.

US Vice President JD Vance has paid tribute to his "dear friend" Charlie Kirk.

He wrote to X: "Last week, we brought my dear friend Charlie Kirk home one last time.

"Today, we return to Arizona to remember Charlie and honour his sacrifice.

"May he eternally rest in peace, and may God watch over Erika and their beautiful children."

Steve Bannon has arrived at the memorial

Steve Bannon, former chief advisor to Donald Trump, has been pictured arriving at State Farm Stadium for the memorial service.

Mr Bannon could be seen wearing a dark-coloured shirt and blazer and sunglasses as he arrived.

Speaking on his War Room podcast following Charlie Kirk's death, Mr Bannon described him as a "world historical figure".

Large crowds have began to gather at State Farm Stadium

Organisers have said they expected to fill State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, for Charlie Kirk's memorial service today.

The stadium has a capacity of more than 73,000.

An overflow space has also been arranged at a nearby arena, according to Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for Kirk’s advocacy group, Turning Point USA.