Camera crews, a television star and a boy band appeared at Haven House early this morning as ITV’s Daybreak was broadcast live from the hospice.

The special event was part of the channel’s Text Santa appeal, of which the Woodford Green charity is a beneficiary.

Staff, children and families had an early start as they made their way down to the High Road centre, where they were joined by presenter Mark Wright and boy band Union J.

Mark is an ambassador of the hospice, and has been involved in fund raising in the past.

He said: “It was great to be back at Haven House and to show the amazing work that my local hospice does on national TV.”

Mark, broadcasting from a musical therapy session, encouraged viewers to donate toy instruments to Daybreak’s Toy Box appeal, which will involve toys being given to hospices this Christmas.

Mike Palfreman, chief executive of the hospice said: “It’s amazing to think that our small, local charity in Woodford Green is getting this kind of national exposure and these fundraising opportunities.”