An Eastenders’ star visited a children's hospital to hand deliver presents to youngsters staying there over Christmas.

Jacqueline Jossa, who plays Lauren in the hit soap, met sick children at Queen Mary’s Hospital for Children in the dedicated children’s ward, A&E and day surgery unit, and spent time with young patients ranging from just three weeks old to 14 year olds.

The star visited the hospital on the St Helier hospital site and spent time with young patients ranging from just three weeks old to 14 year olds.

Jossa said: "I wanted to do something nice for children who are in hospital over Christmas. I’ve got nieces and nephews who I’m really close to, so it was a pleasure to meet the children today."

Chief executive Matthew Hopkins, who helped to show Jacqueline and her friend Laura around the dedicated children’s hospital, said: "On behalf of our younger patients, their parents and our staff, I would like to say thank you to Jacqueline for taking the time out of her schedule and visiting us."

"It was a very thoughtful thing to do, and it has truly brightened the day of our patients and staff. As a parent, I can imagine how difficult it would be to have a child in hospital over Christmas, but a very special visit like this has brought lots of happiness to our wards."