Children visiting Kingston Hospital are now greeted by whales and waves, rather than dreary beige walls, thanks to Kingston charity Momentum and comic Jo Brand.

The former nurse, who reprised that role for TV in Getting On, performed for one night only at the Rose Theatre last year raising more than £5,000 for refurbishment of the paediatrics outpatients department.

A consultation room and the reception area have been revamped with a seafaring theme, including a lighthouse and a treasure chest play box.

Bianca Effemey, Momentum co-founder and director, said the refurbished areas look much less clinical than before.

She said: “Studies show that the environment in which children are treated makes a huge difference and can help them to recover more quickly.

“It’s a distraction, it’s something else to think about – it’s a pleasant environment and it is nicer for the parents.

“We are immensely grateful to Jo Brand and all the other benefactors who helped to make this project possible.”

Jo Brand said: “Every time I've been to the Rose for Momentum it's been really good fun.

“Momentum is a wonderful charity with a great team of dedicated people working very hard to keep it ticking over and it’s great to hear the money was used to improve paediatric outpatients at Kingston Hospital.”

Healthcare assistant Sarah Ridcot said: “It’s been a real joy witnessing the excitement on the children’s faces as they enter the outpatients.

"The sea theme has been a real hit, also with the adults – parents and staff.”

Local businesses which contributed to the upgrade, designed by consultant Amanda Leggatt, include Body Shop Kingston, Espresso Bar at Norbiton Station, and Nauticalia in the Bentalls Centre.

Kingston University rugby players also helped raise funds.

Momentum does not get government funding but supports children being treated for cancer, and their families.

For more information, visit moment-um.org.