COMEDIAN Roy Walker put the smile on the faces of patients after he took time out to open a new coffee shop at Queen's Park Hospital in Blackburn.

The former host of ITV quiz show Catchphrase -- famous for his quip "Just say what you see" -- gave patients the perfect tonic by cracking jokes and wishing them a speedy recovery.

The coffee shop, which is run by United News Shops, will provide a service to patients, visitors and staff and will sell newspapers, cards, beverages and snacks in the main reception area. The company will also be offering a hospital trolley service to patients.

Mr Walker said: "It was a pleasure to be asked to open the coffee shop.

"I have had some happy times in Blackburn -- especially taking money from snooker champion Dennis Taylor on the golf course!"

Mr Walker also sent a good luck message to Graeme Souness and Blackburn Rovers for the rest of this season and next season.

John Thomas, chief executive of Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley NHS Trust, said: "I am sure that this new facility will be much appreciated."

Roy is pictured taking patient Jennifer Esler's pulse after a trip round Ward C9 with the coffee shop trolley.