Celebrities joined children and families at London’s first children’s hospice last night for a special exhibition to honour youngsters with terminal illness.

Richard House Children’s Hospice was transformed into a prestigious art gallery to showcase art, films and photographs produced by children, along with professional portraites by renowned photographer Ken Kamara.

Supporters including award-winning actress Imelda Staunton and Downtown Abbey star Jim Carter joined East London community leaders at the event, part of its week-long campaign to raise awareness of the hospice at Beckton.

Richard House communications chief Niall Couper said: “We create positive memories for families and children and hope that the night will be one such memory.

“The highlight for me was seeing the faces of children like Josh, Aisha, Abdullah, Lance and Miles light up when they saw their own portraits displayed.”

Many yongsters are not expected to reach adulthood. Richard House provides free care and services to children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families. Services also include family support and bereavement.