HOSPITAL bosses have come up with a novel way of keeping sick youngsters entertained – they're sending in the clowns.

A team of highly-trained artists are set to start work at Queen's Medical Centre children's wards in August.

The Clown Doctors are specially trained to cheer up children by performing magic, balloon modelling, puppetry and story-telling.

They wear white coats but add extra touches including bright patches on their coats and flowers in their hair.

Jenny Payne, fundraiser for the Theodora Children's Trust, which runs the Clown Doctors scheme, said: "It is a really inspirational thing to watch.

"Not only is the child smiling and becoming a child again for a few moments, but it is amazing for the parents.

"The fact they can see their children happy again matters so much."

The London charity, which is sending clowns to 17 other hospitals nationwide, makes sure its artists wear minimal make-up to avoid scaring the children.

The charity was chosen by Nottingham hospital bosses after medics visited a hospital in Sheffield to see the clowns in action.

They were amazed by the way the group had children, from toddlers to teenagers, laughing and forgetting they were in hospital.

The hospital trust's charity will pay for the two clowns' 104 visits a year to Nottingham – which will mean 3,600 children a year will be seen.

Studies have shown laughter can aid the healing process and can have therapeutic value.

Angela Horsley, the hospital trust's clinical lead for children's services, said: "It can be daunting for a child or young person to come into hospital as a patient.

"For the first time in Nottingham we have invited the Clown Doctors to visit the wards and departments.

"Hopefully their presence will help put the child and young person more at ease and bring some laughter into their experience."

A donation of £5 per month will help fund a monthly Clown Doctor visit for one child to Nottingham.

To donate visit www.nuhcharity.org.uk or call Nottingham University Hospitals Charity on 0115 962 7905.

robert.parsons@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk