THE Countess of Wessex enjoyed decorating cakes with children and families supported by Shooting Star Chase children’s hospice last week as part of the hospice’s 15th birthday celebrations.

The Countess, Royal Patron of the charity, visited Christopher’s in Guildford, one of two hospices run by Shooting Star Chase caring for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families, across London and Surrey.

She spent time talking with children and families supported by the charity, and then joined children in decorating cakes to celebrate 15 years since the opening of Christopher’s.

Before cutting a specially-made birthday cake, The Countess spoke warmly about the impact the charity has had on the local community.

She said: “Today is about celebrating 15 wonderful years of an incredible service to the community and the many families who greatly need the help that it gives.

“It has been my pleasure to have been involved with this organisation for 15 years. These visits can often be brief so I’m very grateful for the opportunity to spend time with the children today, it has been a great pleasure for me.

“Thank you to the children for all the help in the cake decorating, and also to everyone who works so incredibly hard to keep this place going, both here at Christopher’s and out in the community.

“Every penny counts so we need to do everything we possibly can to help Shooting Star Chase continue its really important work.”