Families and staff at Rainbows thrilled as David Walliams becomes patron

We are delighted to announce David Walliams as our newest patron.

David visited us last month, and was so moved by the families he met and the work we do, he wanted to get on board. The children, young people, families and staff at Rainbows are all overjoyed to have his valued support.

As a Rainbows Patron, David will be supporting the hospice in whatever way his busy schedule allows, which will be invaluable in raising our profile. Ahead of his last visit, he donated personally signed copies of his books to the children and their siblings and said that he looked forward to visiting again.

David said: “I am thrilled to become a patron for Rainbows. It’s a very special place with incredibly inspiring people. I have recently been to the hospice and met some of the children and their families. They have to deal with so much and Rainbows is there for them with smiles, laughter and lots of care and support. I was so moved by the positive atmosphere, that I wanted to get involved. It will be my pleasure to help raise awareness of this charity to help all of the children, young people and families.”

Geoff Ellis, chief executive at Rainbows, added: “To have David on board is very exciting and we are extremely happy that he has pledged his support to us; we are delighted to welcome him as our newest patron. We are very grateful to all of our patrons and ambassadors for the wonderful work they do for Rainbows and for promoting the charity all over the UK. When David visited last month, everybody loved him and we appreciated him spending valuable time with our children, young people and their families.”

David first heard about Rainbows when Susan Taylor very sadly lost her life swimming the English Channel for Rainbows last year. Although he didn’t know Susan personally, he was very touched by her story and donated to Rainbows through her Virgin Money website as well as sending messages to Mrs Taylor’s family.