Harry Potter actor named Birmingham Hospice patron

Harry Potter and Game of Thrones actor David Bradley has become the new patron of Birmingham Hospice.

Bradley, who played Hogwarts caretaker Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films, accepted the role after meeting patients and families, as well as staff and volunteers.

During his visit, the actor toured the hospice's Inpatient Unit and Living Well Centre in Selly Oak, a space designed to help people live well with life-limiting illnesses.

He also met members of the Children's Healing and Therapeutic Support (CHATS) team, which supports younger family members when loved ones die.

Bradley, who has had a long career on stage and screen, said he was "very honoured" to become patron.

"I met some wonderful, dedicated people and it has been a salutary experience," he said.

"I've never had such a positive reaction to just being here. I've been all around the place and been shown round by a few of the patients as well as the wonderful staff. It's been a great day."

He said he was particularly impressed that the hospice supports 685 people each day, either at the hospice or in their own homes.

"I think if people knew more about these places, how they are run and how dedicated staff are, people would become aware enough to realise we can all help," he added.

Chief executive Paul Bytheway said the charity was "incredibly proud" to welcome Bradley as patron.

The hospice is only partially funded by the government and needs to raise £8m this year to continue running, Bytheway said.

He said having a high-profile supporter gave the organisation an opportunity to show more people what it does and help raise "vital funds".

"The buzz David created when he visited Birmingham Hospice was amazing," he said.

"Our teams were genuinely excited. People were talking about it, smiling about it and telling other people about it afterwards."

Bytheway said patients and their families had also responded positively to the visit.

"Many of our patients are going through a very difficult time," he said.

"Then suddenly, someone they have watched on television or in films for years is there, having a chat with them, having a laugh and taking an interest in them.

"It gave everyone a real lift."

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