Actor James Norton helps boost city hospice funds

Actor James Norton has helped to raise more than £18,000 for a hospice in York.

The star of ITV series Playing Nice, who grew up in Malton, North Yorkshire, said he had been "blown away" by the work at St Leonard's Hospice and wanted to support them.

On Sunday evening, he hosted a ticketed event at St Peter's School in York, where he spoke about his life in Yorkshire and award-winning career, which also includes his starring role in BBC drama Happy Valley.

A spokesperson for the charity said they were "really grateful" to Norton for giving up his time to raise money for them.

The actor was introduced to St Leonard's by his mother, who is a trustee.

"I had never been and I got a lovely tour a few weeks ago," he said.

"I was amazed, it's an incredible place.

"My mum kept coming back from the trustee meetings and said it's not what you expect."

Norton added the hospice was "full of hope and compassion".

"I was blown away. It was a nice opportunity to go up, meet the team and make some cash for them," he said.

Clare Meadley, who works at St Leonard's Hospice and organised Sunday night's event, said: "The money raised last night... will continue to help families across York and the surrounding area to access the care we provide for those with serious illnesses and life-limiting conditions."

St Leonard's Hospice recently celebrated its 40th anniversary of offering free hospice care to terminally ill patients.

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