Children's TV presenter, Chris Jarvis, topped the bill at the recent JH Rocks festival held by Julia's House children's hospice.

The annual event, held at the charity's hospice in Corfe Mullen, brings together the children and families who are cared for by Julia's House for a week of music, fun and laughter.

This year's event was extra special, as the charity marks its twentieth year of providing life-changing support to the families of seriously ill children across Dorset and Wiltshire.

Chris, who is a patron of Julia's House, chatted with families before reading them all a story in the hospice garden.

He said: "Being a patron of Julia's House is a huge honour. Thank you to everyone at Julia's House for all the love, joy and support you have given to so many young superstars over the last 20 years.

"I've been lucky to have had the chance to get to know some of them and see the enormous difference Julia's House has made to their precious lives."

Natalie Sheehy, Lead Nurse at Julia’s House, said: "For a family caring around the clock for a life-limited child, events like JH Rocks are so incredibly important, as it gives them the opportunity to meet other people going through a similar experience.

"For a little while they can set aside the stresses of their day, knowing our trained nurses and carers are on hand to help.

"It allows them to just enjoy being a family and to make some memories to treasure. Having Chris here really has been the icing on the cake.

"He's so fantastic with the children and families, and we are so grateful to have him as one of our fantastic patrons."

Julia's House receives just eight per cent funding from the government to carry out its vital service – the children’s hospice charity relies on the goodwill of the local community, through fundraising, donations and gifts in Wills to provide its care.

To find out more visit www.juliashouse.org