Money raised from a television appeal will go towards helping families with sick children make the most of their “precious” time together.

Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, in Victors Way, Barnet, will benefit from money raised through the TextSanta appeal, shown on ITV last Friday.

Donations will be distributed by Together for Short Lives, which will receive £9,17,178 to be shared amongst 53 hospices.

Ru Watkins, chief executive of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, said: “We are thrilled that the funds raised from Text Santa will benefit children and families from the North London area who are supported by us.

“We are one of the 53 children’s hospice services to benefit from the money donated by ITV viewers which will help support thousands of families caring for a child with a life-threatening or life-limiting illness.”

Barbara Gelb, CEO for Together for Short Lives, said: “We are thrilled with the fantastic amount raised through the Text Santa appeal. Children’s hospices are all charities and rely on donations to run their lifeline services for children who may not live to reach adulthood and their families.

“The funds raised for Together for Short Lives will help to ensure that the UK's children's hospice services can continue to deliver essential 24/7 support to families, helping them make the most of their precious time together.”