The family of murdered Josh Hanson marked what would have been his 22nd birthday with an incredible group skydive, and raised thousands in a team effort.

Mr Hanson, of Kingsbury , was stabbed to death at the RE Bar in Field End Road, Eastcote , during the early hours of October 11 2015.

Mum Tracey, who previously put out an emotional plea to catch her son's killer, was one of 40 people who took part in the mass skydive.

Josh, who would have turned 22 on Saturday (February 27), did a sky dive of his own to raise money for a family friend's daughter, who needed a £50,000 operation in America, so his family thought it would be a fitting way to mark his birthday.

Tracey Hanson skydives in memory of her son

Ms Hanson said: “He did really well that day and it was really befitting to carry that story through - not only was he a great man but he did something at a young age that none of his peers did. I was really proud of him that day.”

'Extremely emotional'

The day was described as a “positive” filled with highs and lows for the bereaved mother and sister, Brooke.

Ms Hanson continued: “As hard as it was on Saturday, it was nice having everyone there to support Brooke and I for Josh's birthday .

“At one point I was standing there watching everyone come down and I completely forgot why I was doing it.

Josh Hanson

“One of the boys was coming down and the first thing that came into my head was Josh... then I thought no, Josh isn't here, that's why we're doing it - but I held it together and it was a really good day.

“Everyone was extremely emotional. I asked if I could show Josh's DVD of when he did it and they very kindly put up a big screen and played it to everyone. It was a mixture of tears and laughter and it inspired everyone else to go ahead with it.

“I was absolutely petrified, I haven't even flown for eight years and for me it was a massive massive to do it.

“I was proud of myself and extremely proud of Brooke as well, we were in the plane together.

“I'm so full of love for everyone that did it and the supporters that came.”

Josh's sister Brooke skydives on his would-be 22nd birthday

The total raised hasn't been finalised, but around £5,000 is said to have been raised on multiple crowdfunding groups to help set up Tracey's impending charity – Justice for Josh Hanson.

After the skydive the group took part in a family tradition which saw them enjoy a meal at the Hanson's local curry house, Spice of India in Wembley .

“That was a bit tough because we had birthday cake, Brooke cut the cake and blew out the candles – that was really hard for her.

“It was an emotional time because we were in there last year for Josh's 21st but we got through it.

“We made up party bags for everyone with a thank you card and a photo of josh in each one. We had a team here laminating – we worked so hard for it."

Josh Hanson did a charity skydive for Mia's Missouri Mission in 2012

The family will continue spreading the word through the the Justice for Josh Hanson Facebook page, now with nearly 27,000 likes.

Tracey added: “Every single day I'm sending out posters. They're all over Ireland, Spain, Cyprus, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Lanzarote.

"I am overwhelmed by the public and their support."

Search for Shane O'Brien continues

Wanted: Shane O'Brien

Officers continue to appeal for information on the whereabouts of man they wish to speak to in connection with the murder.

Shane O'Brien, 27, of Ladbroke Grove, is being sought by investigating officers who need to urgently speak to him. A £10,000 reward is available for information leading to his arrest and prosecution.

Mr O'Brien is described as white, 6ft and of muscular build. He should not be approached by members of the public.

Any sightings of him should be reported to police immediately on 999.