WELSH ACTOR Mark Lewis Jones has helped launch a fundraiser in support of Penarth's Marie Curie hospice Holme Towers.

Mr Jones, who starred in Channel 4's hit drama National Treasure, addressed students at Howell's School, Llandaff, following the school's decision to pick Marie Curie as its charity of the year.

The school is aiming to raise £6,600 to fund the running costs of the Marie Curie hospice in Cardiff and Penarth for an entire day.

During the school's assembly, Mr Jones spoke about the charity's work and the difference that the students will be making to people with a terminal illness and their families.

Luke Waddon, 21, whose father was cared for at the hospice and regularly visits it, also joined the Welsh actor.

Mark Lewis Jones, Pay for a Day ambassador at Marie Curie, said: “I’m delighted that Howell’s has chosen to support the Marie Curie hospice, which provides such compassionate care for people when they need it most. I’m also delighted to announce today, during Hospice Care week, that the school has already raised £1000. It’s an amazing effort after just one week so I’m extremely excited to see what they will achieve in the next few months.

“I’m also aiming to pay for a day’s care at the Marie Curie hospice in Penarth. In November I’ll be running the Beacons ultra-marathon, which is a 47-mile race around the Brecon Beacons. I’ve seen firsthand the work Marie Curie does so I’m just doing my bit to support the charity.”

To donate to Mr Jones' 47 mile marathon in aid of the Marie Curie hospice in November, visit justgiving.com/mark-lewis-jones