The key to the Children’s Hospital for Wales was handed over to the Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust on St David’s Day, marking the official opening of the building as a working hospital.

Handing the ceremonial key to two children, G Stanley Thomas, Chairman of the Noah’s Ark Appeal said:

“Today is a momentous occasion for the Noah’s Ark Appeal and for our supporters, without whom we would not be here today.

“The generosity of people from across Wales makes me proud to be Welsh and proud to know that, together, we have built a Children’s Hospital for Wales.”

The children then presented the key to Simon Jones, Chairman of Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust.

Releasing over a thousand balloons from the first floor balcony of the hospital, to celebrate the occasion (as she did at the launch of the Appeal in May 2000) Charlotte Church said:

“I am so excited to be at the Children’s Hospital today to see the key to the hospital be officially handed over. I’ve been involved with the Appeal, as a patron, since the beginning, so this day is a very special occasion because it shows how far the Appeal has come.

“The appeal to build the first Children’s Hospital for Wales has always been close to my heart. I’m thrilled to be here today and to see how amazing the hospital looks. I’m sure that it will make such a difference to the children who have to use it.”