A man dubbed “one of the most extraordinary people in the country” helped raise £2,000 for a hospice yesterday.

Dr Jonathan Miller spent an evening talking about his life as a doctor, psychiatrist, comedian, television presenter, writer, theatre producer, sculptor and photographer at Middlesex University's campus in The Burroughs, Hendon.

He also told a packed audience about the psychology of the brain and body language, all to raise the money for the North London Hospice, Woodside Avenue, Finchley.

Peter Krauser, who organised the event, said: “It was just the most amazing evening. People loved it. He referenced philosophers too - it was a very deep talk.

“Everyone was awestruck by his presence. This is a man who has been mentioned in the same breath as Aristotle and Leonardo and it was a great honour to have him supporting the hospice.

“I think he’s one of the most extraordinary people in the country.”

Dr Miller rose to fame in the 1960s alongside Alan Bennett, Peter Cook and Dudley Moore in the hit comedy show Beyond the Fringe, which debuted in the West End before going on to New York’s Broadway.

The father-of-two, who lives in Camden, has also directed many Shakespeare plays and opera shows.

Mr Krauser, who went to both school and university with Dr Miller, added: “The hospice is a great cause so I’m pleased we could support it in this way.

“It’s a rare local gem, a real jewel in the community and it provides so much fantastic specialist care.

“There’s a demand for so many volunteers and fundraisers there, so I’m appealing for as many people as possible to back this amazing cause.”