CHILDREN and staff of a West Devon children's charity have recently welcomed a new patron to the team.

Tavistock folk musician Seth Lakeman has become CHICKS' (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids) newest patron, supporting its activities with disadvantaged children.

Seth recently made a visit to the CHICKS head office in Brentor to meet the team and spend some time with the children.

He is passionate about CHICKS and understands the work of the charity well, having spent time volunteering on one of the week-long camps.

He said: 'I am fortunate to know first hand just what a difference the breaks make to these children's lives.

'I think it's fantastic that CHICKS gives children, who have tough situations going on at home, the chance of a break and the chance to be a child again — totally for free!

'What they do is great and I am happy to be on board.'

Seth joins other patrons, including Jennifer Saunders who recently represented the charity at The Canadian Bank's 'Miracle Day' in London, where the traders donate their commissions to charity on one day of the year.

Jennifer spent time encouraging the employees to donate and managed to close some deals.

She also accepted a cheque on behalf of CHICKS for £30,000, which will be a huge boost to the charity's income.

Chief executive at CHICKS Elanor Hoskin said: 'We are very fortunate to have such fantastic patrons supporting our work and are thrilled to have Seth on board as our newest and youngest patron.

'It is great that he's involved in our work and will be such a fantastic and inspiring role model for our children.'