A top movie actor has praised the work of a rural hospital which supports teenagers with mental health problems.

Sir John Hurt and Lady Hurt, who live near Cromer, watched a production called Finding Your Voice by 12 patients at Huntercombe Hospital, near Buxton.

The 20-30 minute original piece was created through a new partnership between the low-security hospital and University of East Anglia (UEA) drama course students, who are running a drama outreach project with teenagers at Huntercombe Hospital.

Sir John said: 'I was stunned by what I saw at the hospital. The care, patience and respect shown to these young people by all the staff is truly humbling.'

He was impressed by the hospital staff's care and treatment.

At the end of the performance the teenagers presented Sir John with a handmade book inscribed with personal messages

The university students created the play through workshops for the young hospital patients.

The play is due to be performed by the teenagers, aged 15-17, and five UEA students this Thursday in the hospital gym in front of parents, friends and staff.

It will also be shown at the UEA next month as part of a private showcase of the drama outreach project, which works in different areas of the community including schools, museums and care homes.

Neil West, senior manager with the Huntercombe Hospital Group, said: 'Many of the young people here have a traumatic past and so it's important that positive engagement, respect and encouragement are fundamental aspects of the care we provide.

'Through the play the students have helped our patients to experience working together in co-operation as part of a team; to express themselves; to encourage one another and to grow not only in confidence but as more rounded people.'

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