Patients at our hospital could ‘bear-ly’ believe their eyes when TV presenter Andy Day paid them a visit.

Housebuilder Redrow has raised £50,000 for our hospital over the course of the last three years and arranged the visit as part of its on-going support for our charity.

Following a tour of the hospital, Andy visited three wards and helped to distribute toys donated by Redrow.

Graham Micklewright, Regional Director for Redrow Homes (Midlands), said:

Raising £50,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity is a real milestone and something we couldn’t have done without the support of our staff, suppliers, contractors and customers. We decided to celebrate by doing something special for the patients, their families and staff at the hospital.

Andy’s visit was a real surprise for the children – many of them couldn’t believe that someone they’re used to seeing on TV was in the room with them reading a story or hand delivering a new toy.

To tie in with The Big Sleuth, Andy read popular children’s picture book ‘The Everywhere Bear’ to young patients during his visit.

Andy said:

I loved visiting Birmingham Children’s Hospital and meeting the children, staff and parents. It was great to see so many smiling faces.

Children quizzed Andy about the TV shows he’s appeared in; while he turned the tables on them by asking about their favourite programmes, music and films.

Annie Eytle, Acting Events and Regional Fundraising Manager at our charity, added:

We’re incredibly grateful to Redrow Homes for arranging this special visit and would like to say a huge thank you to Andy for taking time out of his busy schedule to surprise our patients.

Our brave children, families and hard-working staff had a truly wonderful afternoon meeting a TV legend in real life! Thanks again to Andy for bringing lots of joy and happiness to our hospital.