A BBC quiz show star spent an afternoon meeting patients at East Lancashire Hospice after being invited to stop by.

Professional quizzer CJ de Mooi, 46, from Barnsley, was invited to the centre in Park Lee Road, Blackburn, after the hospice found out he was in the town performing in the Thwaites Empire Theatre’s panto Jack and the Beanstalk.

CJ, who is known for being on TV show Eggheads, was given a tour of the hospice by community fundraiser Kimberley Hall and met patients at a creative and support therapies session.

CJ, who stars as ‘Flesh Creep’ in the Pendle Productions panto was also asked trivia questions by patients and staff after the tour.

Miss Hall said the hospice was delighted that the performer could see everyone.

She said: “He was shown the facilities and heard from patients themselves how the hospice has helped them.

“CJ met Thomas, who is staying on inpatients and hoping to go home after Christmas and also spoke to Jackie who comes each week.

“She told him that she couldn’t do without the hospice as it gives her the opportunity to talk openly about her condition, which she can’t do at home.

“One of the patients asked CJ a sport question about Robbie Savage and he couldn’t get the right answer – he did admit that sport was not one of this strong areas.

“We’re very grateful to CJ for taking time out of his busy schedule and wish him well in his remaining panto shows.”

CJ said: “The hospice is such a wonderful place providing care all year round.

“It was an inspiration to meet the patients, volunteers and staff and to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.”

For details on volunteering or donating at the hospice, visit eastlancshospice.org.uk.