CELEBRITY patrons joined in the fun celebrating the hard work of a children’s hospice at its summer fair last weekend.

More than 1,200 people attended Haven House Children's Hospice's annual event, held in its woodland grounds in High Road, Woodford Green on Sunday (July 10).

Chigwell-born actors and hospice patrons Vicki Michelle MBE and Gary Lucy joined in the fun with Haven House families as they took part in face painting, a teddy raffle and football penalty shootout.

Fair-goers were also treated to performances from the Chingford Morris Men and local bands like the Jailhouse Blues Brothers.

The event helped raise £13,000 for the hospice, which will go towards helping families with disabled and life-limited children across east London and Essex.

Star of 'Allo 'Allo Vicki Michelle said: “I always have a wonderful time at the summer fair and this year was no exception.

“It was lovely to meet some of the children and their families who use the hospice.

“Haven House has a special place in my heart and it’s great to see the charity going from strength to strength.”

Chief executive Mike Palfreman said: “Our summer fair keeps getting bigger and better each year, and once again has raised an incredible amount for the hospice.

“It was great to see our patrons Vicki and Gary taking the time to speak to guests about our work.

“And we were thrilled to see so many of our children and their families enjoying the event too.”

To take part in Haven House’s online raffle, see the website.

www.havenhouse.org.uk/raffle