On 28th November, North East actress Jill Halfpenny switched on the Christmas lights at the Freeman Hospital to bring festive cheer to patients, families, and medical staff.

The event attracted an excited crowd of Christmas lovers who enjoyed an evening of music, entertainment, and sparkling lights.

Over the years, Jill has starred in TV series such as Coronation Street, EastEnders, Waterloo Road, and In The Club, and has won dance contest Strictly Come Dancing in 2004. She is also the voice of Geordie Hospital, a documentary that follows the extraordinary work of NHS staff in Newcastle's hospitals.

Radio Tyneside’s Richard Finch caught up with Jill minutes before she took centre stage to turn on the Christmas lights. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?,” she said. “I am really happy to be here!” 

Listen to the full interview here: