A charity had a surprise but very welcome visit from their patron, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.

The Archbishop paid a special Christmas visit to the Demelza Children’s Hospice, in Rook Lane, Sittingbourne, to meet children, parents and staff.

The most senior bishop in the Church of England was given a tour of the facilities by the president of Demelza Richard Oldfield and chief executive Ryan Campbell.

He stopped regularly to speak to children receiving palliative care, their families, as well as various kitchen, grounds and reception volunteers.

Demelza's very own magical Santa’s grotto was last on the itinerary, before the Archbishop was presented with a Christmas card made by Demelza children, featuring fingerprints, handprints and footprints.

The Archbishop said: “Every child and young person is a precious gift from God, and the care and support offered by Demelza is inspiring.

"At Christmas we remember how Jesus came to bring light to the world – and it’s been wonderful to witness the light and joy brought by Demelza into the lives of so many families.”

Demelza's president Richard Oldfield said: “It was wonderful to have the Archbishop at Demelza and to see him spending time with children and their families.

"It was really inspiring for all of us. The connection between the Archbishop’s office and Demelza is very special.”