The UK's bravest children have received a £50,000 boost from the passengers and crew of a Southampton cruise ship.

Hundreds of Hampshire people joined show business stars for a charity cruise on board the 22,945-ton Sundream to raise funds for the Child of Achievement Awards.

Singing star Jane McDonald, who rose to fame in a television documentary about a cruise ship, together with comedian Bradley Walsh topped the cabaret bill as the ship voyaged from Harwich to Southampton.

"It is really strange to be back singing on a cruise ship again,'' said Jane, who raised £1,500 for the charity by auctioning off her stage costume and shoes and then doubling-up the winning bids from her fans.

"This is such a wonderful charity helping children who are an inspiration to us all.''

The charity, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary, was established to recognise youngsters for their outstanding achievements within their childhood.

TV personality and one of the charity's patrons, Bob Holness, who was on the ship, said: "The children we recognise devote much of their young lives to caring for others, or excel themselves at fundraising, putting the happiness of others before their own.

"Today the awards are the most prestigious for children in the country and are given annually to 150 children, up to the age of 16, who by their everyday tasks to help others, or who by their ability overcome illness or disability, are worth of the title Child of Achievement.''

The vessel, operated by holiday company Airtours, who has adopted the charity, is a regular caller to Southampton, used a repositioning voyage from Essex to the city's port for the charity event.

A fleet of 11 coaches took people from in and around Southampton to Harwich to board the ship, now based in the docks for a series of summer cruises.

During the overnight voyage passengers took part in a number of fund- raising events including an art auction, draw and raffle and a cabin collection.