The TV cook took a break from filming his latest series in Rotherham to officially open the Bluebell Wood Hospice's new kitchen - where youngsters and families will be able to create their own healthy meals.

More than 60 families are already receiving care at home from the hospice in Dinnington ahead of its full opening on September 19 and some had gathered to meet the popular cook, famous for bringing healthy cooking into schools and homes.

Ben Fyfield, aged 16, from Barnsley, who has a severe form of epilepsy, made Jamie laugh when he cheekily requested: "Make us a bun."

Referring to rival TV chef, Jamie joked back: "If Gordon Ramsey had come he'd have brought a bun."

The friendly chef chatted to families and staff, posed for dozens of pictures and signed scores of autographs during his visit.

"It's a remarkable achievement and the money's been raised by people in the community and I'm very proud to open the cooking facilities," said dad-of-two Jamie.

The chef has been in Rotherham for the last three weeks for his new TV series and has opened a shop in the town centre giving people information on recipes and helping them learn how to cook.

"It's good to be out of London and in Yorkshire," said Jamie. "People tell it how it is, which I prefer."

Mum-of-three Gillian Scotford, from Dronfield was at the event with 12-year-old son Tom and said it was a pleasure to meet Jamie.

Gillian's sons Tom and Max, 14, have different genetics conditions but
need round-the-clock care and are receiving support from Bluebell Wood.

The mum has raised thousands for the hospice through fundraising with her family and friends and is committed to spreading the word about Bluebell Wood.

She said: "I am just as passionate about Bluebell Wood as Jamie is about school dinners. There are 20,000 children in this country who need to use a hospice and only 5,000 places, it's quite shocking."

Megan Hantzman, 14, is receiving care from the hospice at home, and parents Janet, 44, and David, 45, are looking forward to being able to stay in the building and have respite break as a family.

Megan, from Elsecar, has a life-limiting metabolic disorder and requires constant care. She is tube feed and needs regular medication and cannot be left alone. Her care starts at 6am and does not finish until 11pm each night.

Now thanks to Bluebell Wood's support, Janet, who is Megan's daytime carer while David is at work, is able to get three hours break each week, to do everyday things like the shopping, washing and cleaning.
But the family are looking forward to having a break together once the facilities are open and to be able to relax while professionals take over Megan's everyday care during their stay at the hospice.

It is estimated more than 200 families from across the region will receive support each year.

More than 60 families already receive the 'Hospice in the Home' service and will soon be able to enjoy all facilities on offer in the £4 million building, which was bought almost entirely from the generosity of local volunteer fundraisers.

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