A nine-year-old girl has been told that her fundraising event will make a real difference to how patients can be supported.

Ava-Grace Britton raised £2,000 for Orpington Hospital’s Ontario Ward where her dad spent three months recovering from a stroke.

Paul Britton, 47, had a stroke in November last year after developing sepsis from a thumb infection.

His daughter raised the vital cash by organising a danceathon at Hawes Down Primary School in West Wickham with all her dad’s favourite tunes.

Ava-Grace has now presented a big cheque to staff.

King’s College Hospital Charity, which helps Orpington Hospital, left a grateful note on a card for Ava-Grace.

News Shopper:

It read: "We can not begin to thank you enough for organising a danceathon at your school which raised an incredibly £2,000 for the Ontario Ward.

"Today patients at Orpington Hospital will receive treatment and support that goes above and beyond what NHS funding alone can offer. And that’s because of you! Your amazing fundraising will help patients and families at a time when they need the most support.

"On behalf of every patient and family who will benefit from your fundraising, thank you so very much."

Karen Britton, Ava-Grace’s mum, told News Shopper a "lovely party" was held on the ward.

A plaque will be left in Ava-Grace’s name to remember her generosity.

"It was such a nice afternoon. They were so grateful and it makes us want to do more,"mum Karen told News Shopper.

Paul is still recovering and is undergoing physio to get back to full health.

The money raised will pay for a new PC in the ward, something that could make a difference to visitors and patients.