Celebrities show their support for sick children's charity

Six stars came out in force yesterday to show their support for The Sick Children’s Trust, which allows families with critically ill children in hospital to stay together, just minutes from their child’s bed side.

Our Girl’s Ben Aldridge, critically acclaimed actress Vanessa Redgrave CBE, Olivier Award winner Anita Dobson, rock legend Brian May, Downton Abbey’s Penelope Wilton and actress Emma Fielding all attended The Sick Children’s Trust’s Christmas Carol Service at St Marylebone Parish Church to help raise over £12,000 so that the charity can continue to support over 3,600 families in its 10 ‘Homes from Home’ across the country.

The star studded event saw the celebrities reading their favourite Christmas stories to over 600 guests as well as Emma giving an emotional account of her time in one of the charity’s ‘Home from Home’ Guilford Street House. Vice-President, Anita Dobson, says:

““It’s an absolute pleasure to take part in The Sick Children’s Trust’s Christmas Carol Service. I’ve supported this wonderful charity as Vice President for a number of years and it truly does make such a difference to families with incredibly sick children. The charity’s ‘Homes from Home’ provide the support which means families can be there for their child, providing the love and care they need when it matters most.”

The Sick Children’s Trust’s Chief Executive Jane Featherstone, says: “For many, Christmas is about spending the time with family. Unfortunately, for the families we care for, this Christmas will be a difficult one as they care for their seriously ill child in hospital. But The Sick Children’s Trust will be there, ensuring they can be there for their sick child when it matters most.

“This year’s Christmas Carol Service was a huge success, and with everyone’s fantastic support – our guests, our celebrities and our team – we will help families make this Christmas as magical as possible.”

To find out more about The Sick Children’s Trust, please visit: www.sickchildrenstrust.org