YOUNG patients at Worcestershire Royal Hospital have had a magical week this week.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust has been holding its first Play In Hospital Week, to highlight the value of play for sick children and young people.

And as part of the fun, magician David Oakley was performing some tricks for the youngsters to enjoy.

Paula Thomas, hospital play specialist at the Royal, said: "We try to prepare a child for all invasive or non-invasive procedures through the methods of distraction and therapeutic play, which are effective ways of helping them to understand their illness and treatment.

This helps to provide a relaxed environment for a vulnerable child and can also aid them in regaining confidence and self-esteem after their treatment, assisting them in recovery and rehabilitation."

Purple 'Ad Bangles' with the week's theme, Fly the Flag for Play, on were available, the money going to buy play equipment.