TY HAFAN youngsters were treated to an extra special surprise last week – when stars from the X Factor turned up to bring a little sparkle into their lives, writes Robert James Owen.

Singers from the show including winner James Arthur, Rylan Clark, Ella Henderson, and Jahmene Douglas, and groups Union J, and District3, were all on hand to provide an entertaining afternoon for the children and their families at the Hayes Road hospice.

There were plenty of smiles all round as the singers spent time with babies, toddlers and older children.

Lewis Gasson, a huge James Arthur fan at Ty Hafan, said it was “amazing” to meet the stars. The 12-year-old from Cardiff, who suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, said: “We had such a good time.

I’m so pleased that I met them all.”

Rylan Clark clearly enjoyed the afternoon. Shortly after leaving he tweeted: “What an inspirational bunch of people at Ty Hafan children’s hospice.

Thanks for a great visit. See you all soon x”.

Ella Henderson also tweeted: “What incredibly strong families at Tyˆ Hafan hospice x x pleasure meeting u all!! ... & thank u for my drawing!”

The visit was organised through Together for Short Lives, the leading UK charity for all children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and all those who love, support and care for them.

All the proceeds from James Arthur’s winning single, Impossible will be donated to Together for Short Lives to support children’s hospices like Ty Hafan and other voluntary organisations to sustain their vital work. Ty Hafan offers comfort, care and support for lifelimited children and young people.

It is free of charge to the families in Wales who need it.

For more information on Ty Hafan visit www.tyhafan.org