Blue Planet Aquarium in Cheshire Oaks has officially adopted Claire House Children’s Hospice as its charity partner for the coming year.

Representatives from the Wirral-based charity joined children, family members and carers on a tour of the aquarium to mark the official start of the new partnership on Wednesday, November 19.

As part of the link up, the hospice will be able to have monthly visits to the aquarium and their costume character, Charlie the Clownfish, will also make regular trips to the hospice to meet the children.

Children from Claire House Childrens Hospice are mesmerised by the underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium

There will also be the opportunity to raise funds via sponsored shark dives and special-themed events, which will take place at the aquarium.

Blue Planet Aquarium’s Phil Jones said: “This is our first-ever official charity partnership and we cannot think of a more worthy and inspirational organisation than Claire House to be working with.

“It’s a privilege to get to find out more about the work they do, both at the hospice itself, and throughout the wider community.

He added: “Hopefully linking up with the aquarium will guarantee some fun and exciting experiences for both the children and their parents and also provide a useful way to both raises awareness and much-needed funds for the charity over the coming year.”

Isabelle Gregory, three, and Mia Wright, five, enjoy a day out at the Blue Planet Aquarium with parents and staff from Claire House Childrens Hospice

Claire House provides care, support and choice to families whose children won’t live to be adults. The hospice currently cares for more than 190 families from Cheshire, Merseyside and beyond, helping families create memories that will last a lifetime.

Amanda Mitchell, Cheshire area fundraiser for Claire House Children’s Hospice, said: “This is such a valuable partnership for Claire House. The children and young people absolutely love sensory activities like touch and light so the aquarium is perfect.

“At the hospice, we have an interactive room where children can be transported under the sea with the touch of a button. Thanks to Blue Planet Aquarium, they can now get even closer.”

She added: “Creating memories is what Claire House is all about and we’re so excited for the families we care for to visit the aquarium and enjoy a precious family day out.”

To find out more about Claire House Children’s Hospice visit www.claire-house.org.uk or call the on 0151 343 0883.