A hospice hosted a surprise VIP guest last week when music mogul Simon Cowell paid a visit.

Simon Cowell  met children, families and staff at the Haven House Hospice, in High Road, Woodford Green.

He is a patron of Together For Short Lives, supporting children with life-limiting condtions.

He said: “This week I visited Haven House and met some amazing families and amazing kids.

"It’s always great to see so many smiles which is a credit to the wonderful staff and I applaud them for all the amazing work that they do.

"Knowing Together for Short Lives has changed my life and I would urge everyone to please support Children’s Hospice Week.”