Simon Cowell

Britain’s Got Talent supremo Simon has been a patron of Together For Short Lives for 14 years and stresses that, for families with sick children, every second counts.

“It’s important we make Christmas as special as possible for these families and I’d urge anyone to do what they can. This charity is so important and I’ve seen the difference it makes to parents and children going through the very worst experience.

“During my time as patron of Together For Short Lives, I have learnt that time – no matter how long or short – is the most precious thing, which is why helping them make the most of every moment this Christmas is so very important,” says the 64-year-old, who is looking forward to enjoying simple seasonal pleasures with his nine-year-old son Eric and fiancée Lauren Silverman, 46. “From opening the presents, to snow, hot chocolate and the best Christmas movies, I treasure these moments I share with my family at Christmas.”

Simon says that fatherhood has made him more aware than ever of the challenges – and heartache – facing the parents of gravely ill children.

“When I think about what the kids and the parents are going through in relation to this charity, as a father, I’m just not sure

I could cope with it,” he says. “Every parent I’ve spoken to, they’ve said if it wasn’t for the charity they never would have coped. It’s something we are not programmed to deal with. It’s unbearable.

“I want to thank everyone behind the scenes who have the toughest job, who turn up every day and support families and the children. And thank you to OK! for all you’ve done over the years – you’ve been so consistent and so supportive.”