A hospice that cares for people and their families with terminal illnesses has appointed a new patron.

Amanda Cottrell OBE will take up the role at Northfleet based ellenor.

"I am delighted and honoured to be appointed Patron of ellenor. I have worked with them for some time and thus have had the chance to see the remarkable work they do.

"I look forward to being able to add something to this exceptional cause," she said.

Amanda has enjoyed a wide variety of roles including being a magistrate for more than 20 years, High Sheriff of Kent, trustee of Canterbury Cathedral, deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent and is also patron of both Visit Kent and Produced in Kent, a Kent Ambassador, and a Liveryman and Freeman of the City of London.

She also holds an honorary fellowship of Canterbury Christ Church University and an honorary doctorate of civil law from Kent University.

The new patron has taken up the position to help raise awareness of the charity.

Amanda visited the hospice in Coldharbour Road on Wednesday March 13 to spend time with patients, volunteers and staff.

Chief executive at ellenor Claire Cardy said: "Amanda has been a long term supporter of ellenor and we are delighted and honoured that she has chosen to support our charity as a Patron.

"I feel sure that with Amanda’s patronage, ellenor will gain further recognition and widespread support and continue to grow and thrive."

The charity recently raised more than £26,000 after an accumulator challenge - a competitive fundraiser for organisations - was held last month.

A total of 29 teams across Kent were given a £50 note and given four months to increase it as much as possible.

The money can pay for 54 days of care on ellenor's inpatient ward in Gravesend.