FACES light up when Warrington Wolves forward Ben Harrison enters the wards and offices at St Rocco’s Hospice.

The 28-year-old, who toughs it out among the biggest and best rugby league players in the business, provides a friendly face around the place.

He will be supporting St Rocco’s and the Warrington Wolves Foundation during his testimonial campaign, which officially starts today, Thursday, and marks the Cumbrian’s 13 years of service to the town’s Super League club.

“We had a promotion at the Wolves Foundation, seeing what went on at St Rocco’s and getting a better idea,” said Ben.

“It gave me a realisation of the serious work that goes on there, mainly through volunteering and that they have to self-fund.

“I was completely blown away with what they give to people and the comfort they got out of it, the distraction from some of the issues they were having and the level of care.”

Having been involved for a number of years, Ben finds it is the simplest of touches that can make a difference to people.

Karen Drury, St Rocco’s marketing and communications officer, said: “Ben has helped us out at events, such as our Starlight Ladies Walk where he has presented the medals.

“He is always happy to go on the ward, meet everyone and have pictures taken.

“Ben will have a chat with patients and have a cup of tea.

“What he does helps to keep morale high for patients.

“Both organisations, Warrington Wolves and St Rocco’s Hospice, are well-loved in the town and it’s great he gives his support.

“He’s a familiar face here and we really appreciate what he does.”

Ben says it also aids him when he is helping others.

“The work I’ve been doing is about giving something back,” he said.

“I’m lucky to be in a fortunate position because not everyone has the same opportunity to be able to help out.

“It’s nice sometimes to be in that situation, where you can sit, relax and talk to someone. I enjoy it, it’s helped me too.

“Sometimes you think you’re having a bad day and you think the weight of the world is on your shoulders, but compared to some of the people who are suffering in there, it’s nothing.”

Ben says many of the hospice visitors like to talk to him about sport.

He said: “Warrington is such a rugby-based community. Most of the blokes will know rugby, or will have played, or have been involved in that sort of scene, and some are really passionate and I’ve got that in common with them.

“I’ve been in Warrington for 13 years. This is my home now and St Rocco’s, along with the foundation, is a massive part of the community.”