Rowling approached for cash by Sick Kids appeal

AUTHOR JK Rowling was approached to donate cash to the now defunct campaign to raise £15 million for the new Sick Kids hospital, the Evening News has learned.

Following the release of correspondence between NHS Lothian and the Sick Kids Friends Foundation questions were raised about suspended director Elaine McGonigle's claims that major donors had been approached.

But it has emerged that Ms McGonigle – whose suspension triggered the downfall of the New Pyjamas campaign – had made contact with the Harry Potter creator, only to be rebuffed.

A statement from Ms Rowling's spokeswoman said: "Elaine McGonigle did contact JK Rowling's office about supporting the New Pyjamas appeal.

"But she did not have any direct contact with JK Rowling, and the requests for support were declined."