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Martin Keown signs his autograph for Arsenal fan Stuart Robbins

Former Arsenal and England legend Martin Keown put a smile on the faces of young patients at Oxford Children's Hospital.

Mr Keown, who lives near Bicester, visited the £30m facility at the John Radcliffe Hospital to meet patients and staff after deciding to back fundraising efforts for young patients, and other hospital projects.

He handed out signed photos to youngsters before joining them for a quick kickabout in the playroom near Tom's Ward.

Last month, the former soccer star hosted a reception to encourage local businesses to support the hospitals.

Mr Keown said: "The hospitals really are looking towards the future and making significant investment in a whole range of services and facilities.

"These range from the brand new children's hospital and the Oxford Cancer Centre, which is opening later this year, through to the redevelopment of the geratology department.

"The loss of my mother-in-law to cancer has been a real motivator for me to support a local cause and encourage others to give up their time to help."

The 106-bed children's hospital, part of the West Wing, opened in January last year and treats 65,000 youngsters every year.

Graham Brogden, head of community fundraising, said: "I'm delighted Martin has chosen to become more involved with the trust.

"He is so well-known, but I'm not sure that everyone is aware that he lives in the county. Martin's support is a great example of someone living locally putting something back into their community."

Brain surgeon Peter Richards took time out of his busy schedule to welcome Mr Keown. He said: "I think it's fantastic someone like Martin has decided to support us and I know the children really appreciate his visit."

Paul Robbins, 48, from Maidenhead, was at the hospital with his son Stuart, nine, who needed a stomach operation.

Mr Robbins said: "We have been to the hospital on numerous occasions and the staff here are fantastic - it's a wonderful facility.

"Stuart has been an Arsenal fan for a few years so it's great for him to meet one of the team's legends."

Stuart, who was wearing an Arsenal top, added: "It was great to meet Martin - I've been an Arsenal fan for ages."

Mr Keown, who won 43 caps for England, is the latest celebrity to back the Chox campaign, which has so far raised £13.8m towards a £15m total.

He is following in the footsteps of singer Jason Donovan, who lives near Wantage, and actor Rowan Atkinson, who lives in Waterperry.

4:43pm Friday 18th July 2008

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