Families with sick children were treated to a slap-up meal on Valentine's Day.

Mums and dads staying in Ronald McDonald House, located in St George's Hospital, Tooting, enjoyed a three course meal.

Parents staying in the house are provided with a home away from home while their children are staying in the hospital.

Volunteers from charity Hands on London prepared a meal served in the dining room of the house, which was decorated with heart shaped balloons.

Hands on London volunteers visit the house once a month to prepare home cooked meals for the parents.

Peter Smith, 38, who is staying in the house said: "We’ve been staying at the House since our little boy, Maxwell, was admitted to St George’s Hospital late last year with a respiratory disorder.

"In 95 days I don’t think we’ve spent more than two hours together as a couple so it was wonderful to have an opportunity to sit down for a meal on Valentine’s Day.  

"Also, February 14 is extra special for us this year because Maxwell will be exactly 13 months old and he has already been through so much."

Jeanette Hill, house manager, said: "Many of the families staying in our House are going through a difficult time and often come back from the hospital ward very tired and emotionally drained.

"To be greeted with a warm, home-cooked meal is very comforting and we know that the mums and dads really appreciate it."