IT'S not everyday that an English football star drops into a Hampshire charity to kick a ball about.

But that's what happened after Sol Campbell visited the Naomi House Children's Hospice near Winchester as part of a campaign to recruit more volunteers.

The charity in Sutton Scotney needs scores of volunteers to help with a host of work including gardening, maintenance, fundraising and work in the community.

During his visit Sol challenged youngsters to a game of wheelchair football before allowing staff and children to paint a life-sized drawing of him.

Speaking to the Hampshire Chronicle, he said: "I'm trying to encourage more volunteers to help out. It's a fantastic charity helping kids through their last few years."

Lucy Butcher, volunteer services manager, added: "We are never short of volunteers but you can never have too many. It's just making people aware that there are so many volunteering options here. It's a brilliant place to be involved in."

Naomi House lost £5.7m when British bank Kaupthing, Singer and Friedlander, went into administration last year, and have been lobbying Government for compensation ever since.

For more information on how to volunteer at Naomi House phone Lucy Butcher on 01962 760060 or visit www.naomihouse.org.uk