A memorial dinner has raised nearly £4,000 in memory of a promising student.
The event was held at Southampton College, part of the South Hampshire College Group, in honour of Joe Abbess, a hospitality and catering student.
Hosted at the college’s Aspire Restaurant, the four-course dinner supported air ambulance services across the south by raising nearly £4,000.
Kirstie White, curriculum director at Southampton College, said: "Joe’s love of food, his dedication to his craft and the impact he made on family, friends, colleagues and fellow students continue to be felt today.
"It is that passion, spirit and promise that this event honours.
"His memory continues to inspire us to support causes that save lives through communities."
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Each course on the menu featured ingredients from the regions served by air ambulance charities, including Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Dorset, and Somerset.
More than 60 guests attended the dinner, including Joe’s family and friends, MP Darren Paffey, and representatives from air ambulance organisations.
Students on the college’s Level 1 and Level 2 hospitality and catering programmes prepared and served the meal.
They were supported by lecturers and volunteers from Essential Cuisine, a long-standing supplier and partner organisation for the college group.
A charity raffle also helped boost the funds raised.
Vanessa Abbess, Joe’s mother, said: "We would like to thank Southampton College for putting on this wonderful event in memory of Joe.
"The food was the finest of fine dining and we applaud all of those involved in making the evening such a success.
"It means the absolute world to us that Joe continues to be remembered, it's a true legacy to how loved he will always be and how much he was valued during his time at the college.
"We are very grateful that this is a fundraiser for the air ambulance charities who were there for Joe and who continue to support our family, plus so many others.
"These life-saving charities are always there for the community and deserve our ongoing support."
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