Friends Malcolm Bryce and William Fox paid more than £1,000 to see seven of Jackson's concerts at London's O2 Arena, due to start with the show on July 13.

The 20-year-olds now hope to use that cash to fly to America to mourn their hero, who died at his home last Thursday aged just 50.

Malcolm, of Doncaster Road in Brayton, said: "Me and Will have been there for each other during the past few days coming to terms with Michael's death.

"The first gig should have been two days after my birthday. It would have been a fantastic present – the best – but it's not to be.

"We've spoken about attending Michael's funeral and would like to go, but it depends. It might not even be open to the public."

Former Longman's Hill Primary School pupil Malcolm said he'd been a fan of the singing legend "for as long as I can remember". His favourite song is The Way You Make Me Feel, from the hit album Bad.

He added: "My mum's memories of me as a young tot were trying to perform some of his dance moves under a lamp-post! He was my inspiration.

"It's pretty shocking to know he's dead. It's hard to comprehend. I just want to thank everyone who sent me messages of support and comfort."

Malcolm, a graphic designer, has created a tribute video to Jackson at his http://youtube.com/MalBryc web address and is also considering forming a tribute act with Will.

Jackson died at his home in Los Angeles from a suspected heart attack, with an initial post mortem report concluding there were no suspicious circumstances.

But his father Joe Jackson this week claimed "foul play" might have played a part in the tragedy.

A total of 43 of Jackson's hits, including Man in the Mirror and Thriller, featured in the i-Tunes top 200 songs during the weekend.