Aston Merrygold wows crowds at SEND event at Banham Zoo

Aston Merrygold, who is in JLS, delighted staff and visitors at Banham Zoo on Sunday.

The 38-year-old was at the zoo as part of an event for children with special educational needs.

JLS singer Aston Merrygold delighted families at a special educational needs event at Banham Zoo (Image: YouTube/The Merrygold Family)

Around 2,500 children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families were in attendance at SENDfest.

Merrygold, who has had five UK number one singles with JLS, even performed on the day.

Councillor Wendy Atkinson, cabinet member for Norfolk Children’s Services, said: “I was delighted to attend SENDfest and see first-hand what a fantastic event it was.

"It was clear how much children and their families valued the experience.

Georgia Osborne (Image: Georgia Osborne)

"It was great work by our music hub colleagues to create an atmosphere which was so welcoming, inclusive and full of joy.”

Georgia Osborne, who runs OMGee's, which helped cater the event, said: "One of the most unforgettable moments came when Aston Merrygold appeared at the event as a special guest, performing with the Echoes of the East choir during the Savannah Sundown performance.

"Seeing him step out and sing with the young performers was a real highlight and something we could never have imagined witnessing while working at an event we were catering for.

"It was, without question, a true 'pinch me' moment.

Aston Merrygold performing on the day (Image: Georgia Osborne)

"However, what stood out most was the wider spirit of the day, the families enjoying the festival, the children taking part in performances and activities, and the sense of joy and inclusivity."