Jasmine, Genie and Aladdin spread around the festive spirit as they paid a visit to unwell children at a hospice.

Starlight Children’s Foundation brought along a large dose of fun for the patients at Richard House Hospice, in Richard House Drive, when they performed a pantomime version of the classic tale Aladdin last night.

The fully interactive adaptation included laughs, cheers and a sing-a-long as four actors performed for the children, their families and staff.

Smiya Ahmed, play specialist at the hospice, said: “We know that play can significantly help to improve a child’s hospice experience and we are very grateful to Starlight’s Christmas Pantomime for helping restore some festive fun to the area. It really does allow our young patients to forget about their illness for a short while and experience the magic of Christmas that every child deserves.”

Every year, Starlight offers entertainment to more than half a million poorly children – and is this year touring from London to Sunderland.

“We aim to distract children from the pain and anxiety they feel as a result of their illness,” Sue Wildman, head of children’s services at Starlight Children’s Foundation, said. “Starlight’s Christmas Pantomime is a fabulous way of spreading some much-needed festive cheer. We hope this performance of Aladdin was just what the doctor ordered!”