A SWEET-TOOTHED Prudhoe schoolboy was inspired by his favourite treat to name the Great North Children’s Hospital’s new mascot.

Seven-year-old Ryan Woods decided that the lovable giraffe should be called Fudge, because its spots reminded him of his favourite sweet.

The Prudhoe West First School pupil chose the name just 24 hours after undergoing surgery for suspected appendicitis at the Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle.

Staff had sought suggestions from young patients, and after Ryan’s idea was chosen, Fudge the giraffe was officially named at the hospital’s fifth birthday party at the Royal Victoria Infirmary on Saturday, June 27.

Special guest, celebrity chef Jean-Cristophe Novelli presented Ryan with his prize – a football signed by all the Newcastle United players.

Ryan‘s mum, Lesley, said: “This has been a fantastic day; we’ve all had a wonderful time. We’re delighted that Ryan’s name was chosen and getting to meet Jean-Christophe Novelli was a real treat.”

The hospital was inspired to come up with the new mascot, by a mural on display in one of the wards.

Dr Mike McKean, co clinical director and consultant in paediatric respiratory medicine, explained: “One of the most popular distraction therapies for children is painting and art. One of our play specialists worked with a young patient who loved to draw and paint giraffes.

“From her paintings a mural was created which is on display in one of the wards.

“From this, the idea was born for our Great North Children’s Hospital to have its own giraffe mascot.”

Through the hospital’s partnership with major Newcastle department store Fenwick, the managing director of a local design development company, Infinite Design, Des Kennedy, offered to help design the giraffe.

Chief executive for the Newcastle Hospitals, Sir Leonard Fenwick, said: “We’ve always been proud of our children’s services here in Newcastle which has a long and rich history for providing exceptional healthcare for children.”