WATCH: Walsall FC visit staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital
There were smiles all round as Walsall FC players visited a hospital to spread some Christmas joy.
As is their Christmas tradition, the League One footballers, their manager Jon Whitney and mascot Swifty visited Walsall Manor Hospital to hand out gifts to the children and meet other patients.
Captain Adam Chambers said: “We’re here to bring a few smiles to a few faces. It is a difficult time for them and their families but hopefully us coming in today and handing out gifts is helping to cheer them up
“It is difficult seeing kids going through this at such a young age so it really just shows what life is about and so we do everything we can to help.”
Dee Beecham, aged 29, from Beechdale, was there with her six-year-old son Corey who was in hospital on his birthday because he was having breathing problems.
She said: “He was diagnosed with asthma about six months ago and today his oxygen levels just won’t stay up.
“We have been in hospital for about 20 hours and it’s his birthday so he has absolutely loved the visit from the team.
“He wanted to come back next year and I said there is no chance. It is great that the players are taking the time to do this.”
The players, who were wearing donning their tracksuits, gave out a variety of presents including Lego and colouring sets to the children.
Mr Whitney said: “It is good for young players to realise the privileged position that we are in and it is a dream job for myself and the players.
“We need to share a bit of that with those in less privileged positions especially those in paediatric care.”
