COMEDIAN and actor Ted Robbins and his sister, artist Jane Robbins have gifted University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust (UHSM) a specially painted portrait of the actor to say thank you for the treatment, care and support he received earlier this year.

He collapsed on stage during the opening night of Peter Kay’s Phoenix Night’s Live show for Comic Relief at Manchester Arena earlier this year and was taken to UHSM where he underwent extensive heart surgery and spent a lengthy recovery on the cardiothoracic critical care unit (CTCCU) and coronary care unit (CCU) at UHSM’s Wythenshawe Hospital.

Speaking of his time at the hospital, Ted said: “Once at Wythenshawe Hospital I received the most amazing treatment. Where do I begin to list the number of incredible experts that helped me? The nurses, consultants, doctors, porters and physios and not forgetting the kind souls that took me to the shower amongst but a few. My handing over of this portrait is in some small way a token of my gratitude for all at Wythenshawe Hospital.”

On August 11, Ted celebrated his 60th birthday, a poignant milestone for the actor. His sister Jane, a nationally acclaimed sculptor and artist painted a portrait for him as a special gift.

Speaking of the portrait, Jane said, “When Ted was taken ill the family all rallied around him (like big families do!) We were all so happy and grateful for the speedy and professional medical care he received at Wythenshawe Hospital."

It was recently announced by the ITV press office that Ted would be the latest star to be hitting the cobbles of Coronation Street, airing later this year. He is currently filming and will appear as character Brendan as the on-screen love interest of popular character Mary Taylor (played by Patti Clare).