WATCH: Peter Andre, Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice Patron

Singer/songwriter Peter Andre did his best to keep up with his commitments as Patron of Sussex's Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice, when he couldn't visit personally due to the coronavirus lockdown.

The hospice said he was planning to attend during Children's Hospice Week (22-28 June), but the well-known restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19 made this impossible.

So instead, he dropped in via video call on Wednesday to catch up with Izzy, Loui and Karen, who he has met on previous visits to the children’s hospice. 

In January 2019, Peter became a Patron of Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice in Sussex, and also "Together for Short Lives", the UK charity for seriously ill children and children’s hospices.

He said:

“I’m really blown away by the work of Chestnut Tree House and Together for Short Lives, and am proud to be a Patron of both charities.

"Children’s hospices are such special, vital places, but I think a lot of people don’t really understand what they are or the many different ways they support children and families.

"It was lovely to catch up with Izzy and Loui to see how they’re getting on, and hopefully I’ll be able to visit Chestnut Tree House again soon.”

The hospice told More Radio that, as well as the video call, Peter recorded a message to all the children and families supported by children’s hospices up and down the country. He also thanked the care teams for the amazing work they do supporting families.

A spokesperson for Chestnut Tree House said:

"He shows genuine interest in the work we do and the families we care for, and always makes sure he spends time with everyone."

"We are incredibly grateful for Peter’s support as our Patron, and hope that it helps more people to see what wonderful and vital places children’s hospices like Chestnut Tree House are.

"Peter is passionate about making a difference, and visits like this – even if it had to be virtual this time –  help create special memories for our children and families, which is something you can’t put a price on.”