Actress Laila Rouass returns to the East End today (Sat) to open a Christmas bazaar at a hospice that once cared for her childhood friend.

The Stepney-born star of Spooks, Strictly Come Dancing and Footballers’ Wives is “giving something back” to St Joseph’s Hospice in South Hackney.

“St Joseph’s is close to my heart,” she explained. “A childhood friend spent her last few days there.

“The care and support they gave her and her family was amazing—I’m pleased to give something back to one of the most deserving organisations in east London—it’s a fantastic charity.”

The bazaar has stalls selling clothing, bags, shoes, books, jewellery, children’s toys and bric-a-brac, as well as featuring music, entertainment, a tombola and of course Santa’s Grotto.

Laila opens the bazaar in Mare Street at 12 noon, entry 50p.