X Factor judge Simon Cowell is Chase hospice charity's new patron (From Your Local Guardian)

X Factor judge Simon Cowell is Chase hospice charity's new patron

6:40am Friday 20th November 2009

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The toughest X Factor judge showed a soft spot after becoming patron of a children’s hospice charity.

Simon Cowell formally announced becoming patron of Children’s Hospices UK at the Chase children’s hospice, Christopher’s, where he struck up a close friendship with Leatherhead girl Sian Tolfree.

Sian, 14, suffers from Di-George Syndrome, a rare congenital heart and lung disease. She has undergone major heart and lung surgery a number of times and is now dependent on a tube in her stomach to feed her.

Mr Cowell commented: “In the time I have been in contact with Chase I have been privileged to see seen first-hand the invaluable care and support children’s hospices offer to young people and their families.

"It is for this reason, I am delighted to be a patron for Children’s Hospices UK.

"I hope by being closely involved with the charity I can help raise the profile of and raise funds for children’s hospices across the UK.”

He took part in a private 45-minute question and answer session with over 100 family members supported by Chase and took time to sign autographs and chat to the children afterwards.

Bridget Turner, Chase deputy chief executive, said: “Simon has been a great supporter of Chase for several years now.

"He’s been to visit the hospice on a number of occasions to meet individuals and groups of children. He has also facilitated wishes for a number of children we support and encourages people to support Chase financially.

"He is a real natural with the children.”

Children’s Hospice UK is the national children’s hospice umbrella organisation which is chaired by Chase chief executive David King.

For more information visit www.childhospice.org.uk.

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