One of Shooting Star's celebrity supporters, Michael Ball, dropped in to Shooting Star House for a special Christmas tea party.

After meeting some of Shooting Star's children, young people and their families, Michael settled down with a mince pie and cup of tea for the afternoon's entertainment. Using makaton - a means of communication for people who cannot communicate by speech - nurses and children took to the stage to perform 'Winter Wonderland.' Michael then joined them for a rousing rendition of 'Silent Night,' even performing some of the lyrics in makaton to a delighted audience.

Michael has been a celebrity supporter of Shooting Star for many years, and performed a special concert, Michael Ball and Friends, at The Prince of Wales Theatre in October which raised over an incredible £105,000. Several Shooting Star families were invited to watch as Michael was joined on stage by Jason Donovan, Shooting Star patron Tony Hadley and Tony Christie.

'After always performing for us, I think we certainly gave Michael a surprise when we sang to him!' said Karen Sugarman, Director of Fundraising Development. 'We were incredibly lucky to have the compliment returned when he performed Silent Night. The whole day really did get Christmas at Shooting Star off to a fantastic start, and gave everyone a truly unforgettable experience. As always, we are so grateful to Michael for coming to see us once again.'