The star of hit show Sherlock Holmes represented The Royal Marsden today (October 19) at the annual Bloomberg Tradebook charity day.

Benedict Cumberbatch joined his family friend and actor, Siobhán Hewlett, whose mother, 70s TV star, Thérèse McMurray, was diagnosed with a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010.

She received chemotherapy treatment at The Royal Marsden where she was visited by Mr Cumberbatch.

The actor, who has starred in films like 12 Years a Slave, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and The Hobbit, said: "At the Royal Marsden the standards of patient care and research into the causes and possible cures for cancer are respected the world over.

"Whenever I have visited friends or relatives I've experienced the exemplary teams of highly skilled staff that treat their patients as people not statistics.

"That has a positive impact on the patient but also on their families, friends and loved ones. It's an honour to be helping them raise funds to continue their brilliant work."

Ms McMurray spoke about the care she receives at the Sutton cancer specialist hospital.

She said: "I have had the most fantastic care at The Royal Marsden. You’re treated as a person and not a number. The expertise of the medical team have both saved and extended my life, which allows me to work, live and enjoy quality time with my family and friends.

"I know that however uncertain my future is, I am in the very best place.”

Her daughter added: "Without The Royal Marsden my mum wouldn’t be here. I’m permanently amazed and overwhelmed by the impeccable level of care and love from everyone at the hospital.

“Sadly cancer is becoming more and more common so it’s vital that more research is carried out into this disease.

"The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity funds research that is revolutionising cancer treatment. The hospital’s researchers are recognised worldwide for their work which is improving the lives of patients with cancer, both at The Royal Marsden and across the world.”

The global Bloomberg charity day is in its sixth year with events taking place in London, New York, Hong Kong and São Paolo.