Comedy fans turned out in force to watch a star-studded show in aid of Oxford's Helen and Douglas House hospices.

About 1,800 people from across the county, and beyond, saw stars Jimmy Carr, Bill Bailey and James Campbell at Oxford's New Theatre on Sunday night.

Early indications estimate that Childish Things 4 raised more than £45,000.

The audience, which included TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson, who lives near Chipping Norton, ranged from children to pensioners. Comedy lovers reported a lively atmosphere with continuous laughter throughout the show. The night was hosted by Mr Carr, star of 8 of 10 Cats, who joked to the crowd: "What an honour and privilege it is to be here - for you I imagine!"

He introduced act Idiots of Ants - a comedy sketch group - followed by 22-year-old singer-songwriter Ally Craig, from Grove, near Wantage.

The youngster who had stayed at the hospice, delighted the audience with his performance.

And, to the delight of the crowd, Mr Bean star Rowan Atkinson made a surprise appearance.

Bill Bailey, comedian, musician and star of BBC 2's Never Mind The Buzz- cocks also proved a hit.

He said: "Thank you Oxford for coming. What a fantastic cause this is for."

The evening finished with a Helen and Douglas House ensemble taking to the stage to sing John Stewart's Daydream Believer.

The one-night event, which has been running for four years, has raised tens of thousands of pounds for the specialist hospices, which care for children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses.

Jeremy Rossiter, who bought his tickets for the show last October, said he particularly enjoyed Mr Bailey's performance, describing it as "absolutely brilliant".

The 42-year-old from Oxford, said: "Last year's show was very funny. This year's was different but just as good. I think my favourite had to be Bill Bailey. He was extremely funny - particularly when making jokes about Devon."

Tickets for Childish Things 4 sold out more than a month in advance.

Helen and Douglas House events co-ordinator Lizzie Pickering said: "We couldn't have wished for the evening to have gone any better.

"Standing backstage and listening to the audience roaring with laughter was a great feeling.

"There really did seem to be something for everyone in the show and, judging from the feedback, people seemed to go home very happy."

Petronella Seccombe from Kiddington, near Woodstock, said: "I am a great supporter of Helen and Douglas House. The charity does such an amazing job. I thought the show was incredibly entertaining - and for the calibre of people willing to give up a night out of their schedules for this show was brilliant."

*Tickets for Childish Things 5, to be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, are now on sale between £20 and 27.50.

To book call 0844 8471585.