One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson makes private visit to Bluebell Wood

The North-Anston based hospice was thrilled when the singer announced the he would become a patron for the charity and play in a football match in aid of Bluebell Wood.

Staff and volunteers thought that things could not get much better.

But then Louis’ manager called to see if Louis could and visit the hospice before Monday’s night football match.

Staff managed to keep the visit under wraps so it would be a private visit and very personal for Louis and the children.

Louis chatted to everyone at the hospice and happily posed for photographs and signed autographs during his two-hour visit.

He said: “I’m so honoured to be a patron of this wonderful charity and my visit today was incredibly moving.”

“I met some truly inspirational people - the work Bluebell Wood do is phenomenal.”

Matt Poole, who was at the hospice with his 17-month-old daughter Rowan, said: “He was really lovely and down to earth. It was great to see him with the children and fabulous that he is supporting Bluebell Wood.”

Sarah Champion, chief executive of Bluebell Wood added: “What a fabulous morning we had. Our children and their parents were thrilled that he came and visited us and certainly brought a lot of sunshine with him.”

“Having Louis as our patron and spreading the word about our work is wonderful, it really helps to raise our profile and help us raise much needed funds for the hospice.”