Middlesex CCC wicketkeeper David Nash has visited The Shooting Star Children's Hospice to hand over a cheque for £15,000 raised from his benefit year.

Nashy', who was born, bred and still lives in Sunbury, was awarded a benefit year in 2007 following 13 years' service with the club, and decided to raise funds solely for the Hampton-based hospice.

Several events took place during the year, including a charity golf day, lunch at Sunbury Cricket Club that attracted guests such as Bobby Davro and Rugby World Cup winner Will Greenwood, a gala dinner at The Brewery in London attended by more than 500 guests, two Long Room dinners at Lord's, curry nights, poker nights and even a ferret racing night!

The cricket star, who has amassed more than 300 first-class dismissals, felt moved to raise funds for the hospice after his first visit last year.

"Visiting Shooting Star House for the first time was an emotional experience," Nash said.

"As a father, the thought of losing a child terrifies me.

"In my career, I have been privileged to tour the world and make a living out of something which I love, so I am really proud to have been able to make a difference to families less fortunate than mine."

During his recent visit, Nash brought along team-mates Tim Mutagh, Nick Compton and Ben Scott, along with Benefit Year chairman Andy Bowden, and the group toured the hospice, handing out signed shirts and tickets for a Test at Lord's.

They even found time for some kwik cricket.

Mike Hey, community fund-raising manager at the hospice, said: "Nashy's support has been truly outstanding.

"Not only has he raised a significant sum of money, he has provided us with a fantastic platform to reach out to some notable community and corporate contacts.

"He has also spoken passionately in media interviews - he is a superb ambassador.'