Meeting his CBBC heroes and some meerkats was one youngster's reward after collecting fruit and veg to feed animals at a zoo.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Elliot with zoo director and One Zoo Three star Tyler Whitnall and some meerkatsElliot with zoo director and One Zoo Three star Tyler Whitnall and some meerkats (Image: Hertfordshire Zoo)

Elliot, an 11-year-old from Hertford, demonstrated the spirit of community and conservation by organising a fruit and vegetable collection for Hertfordshire Zoo.

Recently, Elliot, accompanied by his friends, went door-to-door in his neighbourhood collecting surplus produce from residents to donate as animal feed.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Elliot collecting veg with his friends Elliot collecting veg with his friends (Image: Hertfordshire Zoo)

In preparation for the event, Elliot conducted a leaflet drop, informing neighbours of the collection date. He then encouraged them to contribute any excess fruit and vegetables.

The community responded enthusiastically, resulting in a substantial donation to Hertfordshire Zoo, formerly known as Paradise Wildlife Park.

Located in Broxbourne, the zoo is an animal conservation charity dedicated to the preservation and care of various animal species.

The donated fresh produce will help feed the animals, supporting the zoo's ongoing conservation efforts.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Elliot with the One Zoo Three brothers, Cam, Tyler and Aaron Whitnall, at Hertfordshire Zoo Elliot with the One Zoo Three brothers, Cam, Tyler and Aaron Whitnall, at Hertfordshire Zoo (Image: Hertfordshire Zoo)

In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Elliot had the exciting opportunity to meet his favourite CBBC TV stars, brothers Cam, Tyler, and Aaron Whitnall, the presenters of One Zoo Three. The CBBC series is filmed at Hertfordshire Zoo in White Stubbs Lane.

He also had the chance to meet some of the Herts zoo's meerkats, which some of the donated food helps to feed. 

Tyler Whitnall, director of Hertfordshire Zoo, praised Elliot's initiative.

The One Zoo Three star said: "Young people today often face unfair stereotypes. They are frequently portrayed negatively in the media, but Elliot’s efforts shine as a beacon of hope.

"His dedication and hard work show that the youth of today can have a profoundly positive impact on their community and the environment."