Christopher Biggins spreads cheer at hospital

Panto star Christopher Biggins brought some festive cheer to poorly children with a visit to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

The veteran entertainer, currently starring as Widow Twankey in Aladdin at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre, paid a visit to Ronald McDonald House, where families stay with youngsters receiving treatment.

The star met youngsters, many of whom will be spending the festive season there, and helped decorate the Christmas tree.

The building in St Mary's Row has already helped more than 1,000 families since it opened in November last year.

Biggins said he was "thrilled" to have spent the day there. "Christmas is a time for families to be together, so accommodation like this is essential as parents can be close-by to their sick child," he said. "I wish the staff and all the families a wonderful Christmas and all the best in the New Year."

Libby Aston, manager of the house, added: "Our home-away-from- home accommodation opens its doors to families for the entire year.

"We have families who use the house for a few days and some that stay with us for months with several families staying with us over Christmas to be near their sick children.

"Our priority is to make sure they are comfortable and that they have the best Christmas possible."