TOP comedians and musicians have praised a fundraiser for an Oxford hospice after the curtain fell on the star-studded event for the last time.

And it was not just those on stage who paid tribute to the Childish Things shows, which have raised money for Helen & Douglas House hospice in East Oxford over the past decade.

Video messages from the likes of comedian Graham Norton, comic and TV presenter Griff Rhys Jones and the show’s founder and actor Tom Hollander, praised the success of Childish Things and the dedication of co-organisers Lizzie Pickering and Kate Day.

Comedian Jimmy Carr told the Oxford Mail at the final performance on Tuesday that it was an honour to have been part of the show, adding: “It is a little bit bittersweet this evening because it is the last one.

“It has been really interesting and [the hospice] is a really interesting place to visit.

“If you get the chance to go, go. It is a very friendly place. It is incredibly normal – that’s what you are struck by.”

Comedian Jo Brand said: “I wouldn't be surprised if they came back in a few years. It has a nice feel to it. We always get a great audience.”

Oxford Mail:

Jo Brand

Bobby Goulder, musical director of Oxford’s all-male a cappella group Out of the Blue, said: “It was incredible.

“It has been the highlight of our year – to be on stage with all these people and part of such an amazing cause.”

Didcot Xtra Factor presenter Matt Richardson, former Supergrass frontman Gaz Coombes, QI founder John Lloyd, singer Tom Odell and musician Ally Craig were among the stars this year’s line-up.

Oxford Mail: Jimmy Carr

Previous years have been just as impressive, with comedians Rowan Atkinson, Michael Mcintyre and Miranda Hart taking part.

Organisers say they are on track to raise £100,000 over the two nights for the East Oxford-based hospice with the fundraiser this year, taking the total over the 10 years to £600,000.

Helen & Douglas House, in Magdalen Road, relies on donations and fundraising. The hospice cares for children and young adults with life-limiting conditions and supports their families.