ARMY cooks have been helping to ensure a happy Christmas for youngsters in hospital.

The Christmas cake raffle, held at Imphal Barracks, in Fulford, York, raised more than £500 for the children's ward at York Hospital.

Every year, the chefs from the barracks bake a Christmas cake,which is entered in a competition.

The winning entry is presented to a worthy cause, along with money raised by a raffle of the remaining cakes.

Regimental Catering Warrant Officer Kev Matheson said: "This year, we were stunned by the response. Normally, we raise about £100 to £150, but this year we have been extremely successful."