SOUTHAMPTON singing sensation Donel Mangena joined hundreds of visitors at the city hospital open day.

Members of the public were given an “unprecedented” insight into the workings of The General at an action-packed open day.

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust’s annual event, which attracts visitors from across the UK, was opened by Donel,

with the support of Radio Lollipop.

The city-based star, who came runner-up in The Voice UK this year, was also unveiled as an ambassador for Southampton Children’s Hospital and performed his debut single Bang Like a Drum.

More than 100 events and information stands were open to enable visitors to go behind the scenes of the hospital, covering everything from cancer research, critical care and maternity, to diabetes, medicine for older people and neonatal services.

Donel, 16, who has performed for the Queen, said: “This follows a visit I made here recently to the children’s wards as a new ambassador for the hospital and it was super cool to follow that up at the open day meeting people.

“Everyone seemed so happy and it was a really colourful and fun day.”

And Paula Head, chief executive of the hospital trust, said: “The open day was a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together to find out more about the work of the trust while taking part in a host of fun and educational activities.

“There was a great atmosphere throughout the day and I’d like to thank everyone involved for making it such a success.”