FATBOY Slim is used to whipping up a crowd, but today the DJ was busy in the kitchen rustling up support for a hospice charity.

The superstar has been serving fish and chips at The Big Beach Café at Hove Lagoon to raise funds for Brighton-based charity Martlets and celebrate National Fish and Chip Day.

Fatboy, whose real name is Norman Cook, posed with a plate of crispy cod and a mountain of chips that he had rustled up himself in the kitchen.

The hitmaker and Martlets are asking supporters to celebrate the nation’s favourite takeaway by donating the price of a chippy dinner to the charity.

The Argus: Fatboy Slim with Argus reporter Olivia Fatboy Slim with Argus reporter Olivia

Norman, who is an ambassador for the charity, said the creation of the campaign was a testament to the hard work of the staff during what has been a difficult year.

He told The Argus: “It's a little bit quirky and although fish and chips aren't exactly gourmet food, there is something quintessentially British about them.

"It was just a way of connecting because we can't have any physical events, so it's just a way of us connecting with the community and raising money for a good cause.

"Most of the events I'm usually involved in we haven't been able to do over the last year and a half. Of course we need to raise funds, but no one's been allowed in the hospice for the whole time Covid's been around.

"But it's just a way of reaching out and reminding people that we're still here."

Martlets provides end of life care and support for patients at its hospice in Hove.

Ward manager Graham Turner said this involves helping people to enjoy the time they have left – and that includes having fish and chip takeaways – even on the Martlets inpatient unit.

He said: said “Across our community Martlets cares for patients with terminal illness and supports their families in their own homes and also at our specialist inpatient unit in Hove.

“Despite having to cope with Covid-19, the inpatient unit has a wonderful atmosphere and although we are caring for patients with life-limiting conditions we want to celebrate life and for families to cherish the time they have together in a relaxed environment.

“Before Covid-19 we even hosted weddings at our hospice and encouraged families to bring their beloved pets to visit.

“We were also able to host family celebrations with relatives enjoying a beer or glass of wine (or two) and to order in takeaways.

“We’re very happy to now be able to offer our takeaways again - and of course people here always love a fish and chip supper living by the sea as we do.”

Fish and chip shops from Newhaven to Portslade are lending their support by putting collection tins in their shops and creating window displays.

Martlets also has a "chip in" page on their website, visit www.martlets.org.uk/fish-and-chip-day to donate.