YOUNG patients in the North-East had their funny bones tickled during a visit from the ‘Clown Doctors’.

Youngsters receiving treatment in the Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle, were treated when The Children’s Foundation called in with Easter eggs.

The chocolate eggs were donated by Team Valley-based office technology and services company, SOS Group.

Libby Nolan, fundraising manager at The Children’s Foundation, says: “It’s always hard for children in hospital but it’s especially difficult on special occasions like Easter.

“This is the second year SOS Group have been kind enough to donate Easter gifts and we’re very grateful for their support. Anything we can do, even simple things like sharing Easter eggs, helps lift the children and gives them something new to focus on.

“And a visit from the Clown Doctors is a fun distraction and also a very effective way to help young patients deal with anxieties about staying in hospital.”

As well as the Easter gifts, SOS Group has also donated a Develop MFP colour copy, printer, scanner to help The Children’s Foundation with its fundraising work.

The company are long-term supporters of the charity’s work and have been involved with a number of fundraising events and activities including bowling nights, Grand Prix Events and the Great North Run.

The Clown Doctors visit sick children in hospitals all over the North-East to support them through what can be a traumatic and frightening time.

Fear, boredom, loss of control and other insecurities can adversely affect children in hospitals, and the Clown Doctors offer an impartial way of entertaining, supporting and empowering the children who may be struggling with these issues.

Performing arts such as storytelling, music, improvisation and clowning are used to engage the children and to help them come to terms with their situation using humour and play.

Andrew Skelton, director of SOS Group, said: “It was a privilege to help deliver Easter eggs alongside the Clown Doctors.

“They’re absolutely magnificent and I can really understand why The Children’s Foundation help fund them.

“Obviously, it’s very difficult for young people in hospital, and for their family and friends too.

“It was wonderful to see the difference a small Easter treat and entertainment from the Clown Doctors could bring.”