Children receiving hospital treatment had a “magical” day out at the theatre.

Barnet-based charity Spread a Smile, which provides entertainment to seriously ill children, took 32 families to see Disney’s the Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre.

The children, who are all receiving treatment at University College Hospital or Great Ormond Street Hospital, were also invited to meet the cast.

Cheryl Holmes, mother of 11-year-old Debbie, who receives treatment at University College Hospital, said: “The second round of chemotherapy had left my daughter depressed and feeling sick.

“There was a wonderful warming, transforming, magical moment as the cast burst into song. I could see happiness growing on my daughter’s face. The day has lifted her spirits.”