Members of a youth group enjoyed a day out at London Zoo in memory of a special friend.

The Friday Night Project event was organised by Nick and Sam Khaira, the parents of much-loved long-term member Elijah, who died aged 20 in June.

Elijah's parents wanted to give something back to the Hedge End group in memory of Elijah, a football mad aspiring referee, Saints fan and animal lover who was studying marine biology at university before his sudden unexpected death from epilepsy. 

(Image: Supplied) The group particularly enjoyed their bespoke penguin feeding experience.

(Image: Supplied) Elijah's Dad Nick said: "Elijah was passionate about animals and this seemed like an appropriate day out in his memory.

"The Friday Night Project was a place where he could be himself, talk about issues and have a good time with like-minded kids. Over the years Elijah took on an almost 'father figure' to some of the kids, his high functioning autism meant that as he got older and developed with experience, he was able to mentor some of the less able young people."

(Image: Family collection)