A STAR of TV show The X Factor, lifted staff and patients’ spirits when he made a surprise visit to a hospice in Poole on Tuesday.

Ray Quinn, who also won the All Stars series of ITV’s Dancing on Ice, dropped into Lewis-Manning Hospice, based on Crichel Mount Road in Lilliput, where he took a tour of the facilities.

Ray, who lives in Poole with his wife, Emma Stephens, and son Harry, took to his Twitter page after looking around Lewis-Manning on Tuesday and said: “Really inspiring visit to Lewis-Manning Hospice today while I’m here in Poole. Fantastically dedicated, passionate staff.”

Paul Tucker, communications officer at the hospice, which offers support to local people living with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, said that Ray sent some of his CDs to the hospice for patients to listen to.

Paul added: “It was a real treat to have Ray pop in and it certainly gave everyone a huge lift. He took time to meet all the staff members and was particularly keen to find out more about the work of the hospice.”

Ray’s new EP, Old Soul, Young Blood, is set to be released on Monday, September 15, which is currently second in the pre-order jazz music charts.

The actor and dancing sensation is also due to appear at the Lighthouse in Poole on Friday, October 17, for an informal evening of song, chat and audience participation.

Lewis-Manning Hospice offers a day hospice, lymphoedema clinic and breathlessness clinic, as well as running an education service and support groups for families and carers. For more information, go to lewis-manning.co.uk