Rays of sunshine swept over Elstree Studios as children with life-limiting illnesses were granted a Christmas wish.

In a day organised by charity Rays of Sunshine, 36 children were picked up from their homes in limousines to be dropped off at Elstree Studios, in Shenley Road, Borehamwood on Tuesday. 

Elstree Studios staff Jo, LouLou and Brody, who had dressed as Miss Sunshine, Elsa from Frozen and a turtle, greeted the children before they were visited by boy band One Direction.

The group, who have been long-time supporters of the organisation, had earlier visited five-year-old fan Effy, who is awaiting a heart transplant, before arriving at Elstree Studios.

Harriet, 15, who has cystic fibrosis, arrived by ambulance to meet the band while 15-year-old Ellie-Leigh, who has heart disease, was treated to a One Direction rendition of Happy Birthday ahead of her birthday at the weekend.

Children were then given the chance to ask any questions they wished to One Direction, with one girl asking band member Niall if he will marry her sister.

All the children had their picture taken with the boys, before leaving with a One Direction goody bag which included a signed One Direction T-shirt, two tickets to the 2015 tour and a 30ml bottle of One Direction’s fragrance You and I, donated by Rays of Sunshine’s supporters The Fragrance Shop.

Following their visit, the band posted on Twitter: “Had an amazing day with Rays of Sunshine yesterday and met some truly amazing kids and families. Thank you all so much for coming down!"