BASILDON Hospital mascot Polly Parrot gained a celebrity supporter at a national awards ceremony.

The Polly Parrot Appeal, which raises funds for the children’s wards and departments at the hospital, was nominated in the Fundraising Team of the Year category at this year's Charity Times Awards.

Despite not being crowned winner, awards presenter, comedian and actress Lucy Porter was photographed proudly displaying two cuddly Polly Parrot toys which she took home for her children.

The following morning she tweeted a picture of the pair surrounded by her children’s favourite cuddly toys, with the message: “Massive thanks from my two for your two – they have already made new friends.”

Helen Mattock, Basildon Hospital fundraiser, said: “Even though we didn’t win an award we were delighted to receive such a glowing endorsement from Lucy. She was lovely and showed a real interest in the work of our charity. Even though we went home empty-handed we felt like winners. I’m sure our Polly Parrots have gone to a good home. Congratulations to Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity who were the winners in our category.”

The Polly Parrot Appeal, which has a fundraising target of £250,000, has raised £140,000 over the past year.

The money will be spent on sensory equipment, toys, child-friendly furniture, and electronic gadgets.

To donate, call 01268 524 900 extension 2894 or visit www.justgiving.com/Polly-Parrot-Appeal-Childrens-Services.