Eleven-months-old Lewis Alexander is in his element as he helps a confectionary firm launch a tie-up that will see Snowballs, Teacakes, Meringues and other sweets sent to children's hospices.

The youngster, from Falkirk, Stirlingshire, is delighted Lees of Scotland will be providing products to friends and relatives of the patients at Children's Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

The child has been receiving treatment at the charity and his father, Martin, praised staff.

He said it "makes such a huge difference to our lives as it allows us to spend quality time as a family. Having treats from Lees for us to be able to enjoy while we take a break from caring for Lewis is a real bonus".

CHAS, the only charity in Scotland to provide hospice services for children and young people with life-shortening conditions, offers care in Rachel House in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch, West Dunbartonshire.

Clive Miquel, managing director at Lees of Scotland, said: "The care and support that CHAS provides to these families when they are going through such a difficult time is second to none. We are extremely proud to be able to support such a great cause and help in any way we can."

Debbie Mooney, regional fundraising manager of CHAS said: "To have Lees supporting CHAS is something we are really excited about. Food plays such an important part in life at the hospice and their sweet treats will bring a smile to not only the children's faces, but brothers, sisters, mums and dads too."