THEY will arrive in their hundreds to pay tribute to “the life and soul of the party”.

A huge turnout is expected at Romsey Abbey today as friends and family gather to say their final farewells to Steven Johnson, who was killed in a hit-and run crash.

Some of the 20-year-old’s pals are even planning to turn up in Liverpool Football Club colours – a reference to the young dad’s beloved team.

As reported, Steven died when he was hit by a car while walking on the A3057 at Romsey on April 19. The driver did not stop.

Parents James Johnson and Ange Dandridge have already told how their son had been “over the moon” at the prospect of becoming a father for the second time.

Nicknamed Stevey J, he had a one-year-old son from a previous relationship and was due to become a father for the second time in September with girlfriend Sarah Mould.

On Thursday, more than 300 loved ones are expected to gather at the Abbey where a friend will give a musical performance in his memory. The Liverpool FC anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is due to be played at the end of the service.

Steven was working for his father, a self-employed fencer, and the two had stopped at The Saints pub in Millbrook for a few drinks after work on the fateful evening.

James left around 9.30pm and told his son he would see him later but Steven was killed instantly when he was hit by a Vauxhall Astra shortly after 10.30pm.

Following a police appeal, a 74-year-old pensioner from Romsey came forward and is helping police with their inquiries.

He and his front-seat passenger, a 76-year-old woman, also from Romsey, were uninjured in the incident.

In the days that followed, Steven was described by family members as a “loveable boy” who doted on his oneyear- old son Lewi Pike.

Friends also released Chinese lanterns in Steven’s memory at locations in Romsey and Millbrook.

The funeral, at midday, will be followed by a cremation at Southampton Crematorium at 1.15pm.

Everyone who knew Steven is welcome.