West Bromwich Albion players have brought festive cheer to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, after visiting poorly young patients on the Children’s Ward.
Footballers Jed Wallace, Alex Mowatt, Jayson Molumby, Mikey Johnston, Josh Griffiths and George Campbell paid a surprise visit to children and their families and carers on their annual visit to the wards at the hospital run by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust.
Whilst on the wards, they spoke to patients who were delighted to see them and handed out gifts and toys handpicked and funded by the club’s charity, The Albion Foundation.
Eleven-year-old Nzubechukwu said: “I like football and it was really nice to meet the team today.
“They gave me some gifts and asked me how I was doing and who my favourite player is. They were really nice and polite guys.”
Danny Dobson and Laura Bettany’s two-year-old son Noah was on the wards when the players visited. Father Danny said: “Noah is going to grow up to be a West Bromwich Albion fan just like his grandad, so it’s really made our day.
“There’s a nice atmosphere with the team being here and I think it’s fantastic that they’ve come here with gifts.
“Noah loved seeing them and it’s been the perfect way to end his time at the hospital, as we’re going home today.”
The player’s visit was organised in conjunction with Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity, the registered charity of the Trust.
The players also met staff on the wards, speaking to them about the care they provide to children, especially while they are in hospital over the Christmas period.
Captain Jed Wallace said: “This is the second time we’ve visited the Midland Met to hand out presents to children who unfortunately might be here over the Christmas period.
“The Albion Foundation do a lot of amazing work in the local community, so hopefully coming down here puts a smile on families’ faces who are obviously going through a difficult time.
“It’s something we’re very proud to do. On behalf of everyone at West Bromwich Albion Football Club, I’d like to thank all the amazing staff that have helped us out today and made us feel so welcome here.”