LITTLE Matthew Bacon took centre stage yesterday at the official opening of the region's first children's hospice.

Six-year-old Matthew, who has cerebral palsy, was chosen to present a thank-you card to Health Secretary and Darlington MP Alan Milburn because he is one of the most popular patients at the Butterwick Children's Hospice, Stockton.

Mr Milburn used the occasion to tell staff at the hospice that the Government was looking to iron out discrepancies in NHS funding between hospices across the country.

The Butterwick was able to offer services to children after an appeal by The Northern Echo helped raise £500,000 to cover its initial costs.

Mr Milburn, who unveiled a plaque, also praised the staff for being among the best in the UK.

He said: "It is a humbling experience visiting this hospice. On the other hand, it's an inspiring place. This is because of the attitude of the staff, the parents and the youngsters themselves.

"The care provided is unsurpassed anywhere in the UK, and I'm proud the best palliative care is to be found in the North-East.

"The staff are to be commended on their commitment and dedication, as well as their skill."

The hospice, which is in the grounds of North Tees Hospital, offers specialist care to youngsters with life-threatening illnesses, often giving their parents their only break from providing 24-hours-a-day care.

Graham Legatt-Chidgey, the hospice's finance director, thanked the readers of The Northern Echo for their support, adding that the hospice still needs £250,000-a-year to operate all its four residential beds.

Meanwhile, Matthew's mother, Angie Bacon, of Drinkfield Crescent, Darlington, praised the hospice, saying: "Matthew's a different lad when he comes here. He's more relaxed and happy.

"It's like a second home and family to him."