Entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne joined beauty queen Hayley Mac on the red carpet on Saturday as they visited London’s first children’s hospice.
It was smiles all round at Richard House Children’s Hospice in Beckton as the investor surprised families and children.
The dazzling Oscars ceremony celebrated the work of children and young adults at the hospice throughout the past year. They work with play and care worker Bernie Wighton to put together films and animations and this was their opportunity to show off their work to their families and most importantly the dragon.
Tycoon Bannatyne, who is most famous for his appearance as a business man on the BBC programme Dragons’ Den, said: "This is my first visit to Richard House and it has been absolutely fantastic and inspirational.
“Richard House is a place of love, happiness and joy. The Oscars awards were superb and inventive and I have already thought of a new category of awards for next year – but you’ll have to wait and see what that is.
“I have really enjoyed myself.”
Hayley, Miss Commonwealth International, presented awards for best animation, best film, best director and best actors and actress
After having a tour of the hospice Mr Bannatyne spent the afternoon talking to parents and staff and having his picture taken with families.
Bernie said: "What a brilliant day and to have both Duncan and Hayley here to congratulate the children made it even more special.
“Our children and their siblings create different videos throughout the year and they are working on projects all the time. We also have a monthly group called Living Films who meet purely to make animations and videos.
“It’s great for the children because it builds their confidence and gives them an outlet.
“Our Oscars are a celebration of the work our children and siblings have done in the past year. It’s a great thing for them all to be part of.”
For more information on Richard House, visit www.richardhouse.org.uk.
