A TELEVISION star spent the afternoon at a children’s hospice to take part in arts and crafts.

Helen Flanagan visited Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices, in Sutton Scotney, last week where she met children suffering from life-limited and life-threatened illnesses.

The actress, who is best known for playing Rosie Webster in Coronation Street and who welcomed her first child, Matilda, with footballer boyfriend Scott Sinclair last year, got messy helping with arts and craft activities and spent some time touring the charity’s facilities.

She also spent time with the nursing team learning about the complexities of their job and the support they offer families.

Helen said: “It was a pleasure to visit Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices where the staff and facilities were amazing. I was overwhelmed by the care provided for these young people, and the commitment to give these children some independence and dignity. It really is a wonderful place and it was a privilege to be there.”

Keith Wilson, marketing manager for Naomi House and Jacksplace, said: “Helen was hugely generous with her time and was brilliant with the children we care for here. We are so very grateful to her for visiting the hospices to surprise our families and staff, and for agreeing to support our forthcoming Foam Fest event.”

Naomi House and Jacksplace provide respite, emergency, end of life and post-bereavement care for hundreds of children, young people and their families across the south of England.

For more information visit naomihouse.org.uk.