Mr Doodle transforms children's hospital courtyard

The illustrator and artist Sam Cox - better known as Mr Doodle - has transformed a courtyard at a children's hospital into a "truly magical" space with his signature squiggles.

After asking for ideas to transform the space on social media, the Friends of Conquest Hospital in St Leonards, East Sussex, joined forces with Mr Doodle.

"What was once a rather boring view of a somewhat uncared for courtyard is now a place of wonder, " said Jo Clark, general manager at the hospital.

She says the mural provides vital distraction and comfort for the hospital's youngest patients during what can be a stressful time for children and families.

The courtyard is situated outside the children's emergency department and is the main view for young people waiting for care.

"Research shows that engaging, detailed artwork helps reduce anxiety, softens the clinical feel of hospitals, and creates a more welcoming space for children, families and for hospital colleagues," Clark added.

Mr Doodle is well-known for his distinctive graffiti that includes sculptures in the West End, a mural on a primary school and all over his own home.

He also designed 2026's red nose for Comic Relief.

It was a "privilege" to do the mural for the hospital, said the artist from Tenterden, Kent.

"I love to make art because it makes me feel good. I love the fact that it can make others happy too."

Mr Doodle added: "I really hope that when the youngest patients of the Conquest Hospital see this artwork outside their department that they enjoy it as much as I enjoyed creating it."

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