Acclaimed espionage author John le Carré, best known for his novels Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, is to become a patron of Julia’s House, the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice charity.

The author was invited to join the charity’s board of patrons after attending the Julia’s House Carols by Candlelight service in Shaftesbury at Christmas.

Born in Poole and educated at Sherborne School in Dorset, John le Carré served briefly in British Intelligence during the Cold War, and it was during this time that he wrote his first novel, Call For The Dead, which introduced his most famous recurring character – the fictional intelligence officer, George Smiley.

He said: “Julia’s House has a rare and special claim on me that I find hard to describe – perhaps it is to do with having been so lucky in our own family, with one or two minor exceptions when compared to the brave, sad misfortunes that Julia’s House confronts daily.

“I am very honoured to be asked to become a patron of the charity.”

Le Carré’s 26 books have been published in over 50 countries and 40 languages and continue to be loved around the world.

His latest book, a classic spy thriller called Agent Running in the Field, was published in October 2019.

Julia’s House provides vital care to the families of children with life-limiting conditions, through tailor made and flexible support.

Nurses and carers deliver respite care in the family home or enabling the children they support to enjoy everyday activities out in the community.

Martin Edwards, chief executive of Julia’s House said: “We are absolutely delighted that John has accepted our invitation and we look forward to working with him again very soon.

“Our patrons play a hugely valuable role in sharing the work of Julia’s House and the life-changing difference we make to local families every day.”