Children and families at Sandwell Hospital were given a festive surprise when four top West Bromwich Albion (WBA) players descended on the Children’s Department.
Footballers Jed Wallace, Conor Townsend, Adam Reach and Kyle Bartley spread festive cheer throughout the wards, gifting the children with specially selected toys that had been funded through the club’s charity The Albion Foundation.
Among those who received a gift was Cairo, aged nine, who was pleased to meet the players. He said: “I feel really happy and I feel really blessed. I’ve met my favourite player.”
Abbie, Cairo’s mum added: “It’s been lovely to see the players taking the time today to visit the children, especially my son he’s been excited all day.”
The visit was organised in conjunction with Your Trust Charity, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust’s registered charity.
Defender Kyle said: “Today’s been a good day, seeing the children who are unfortunately here over the Christmas period. Being a father myself I couldn’t think of anything worse than them being in hospital and being sad, ill or injured.
“For us it’s nice to give something back and put a few smiles on faces and drop a few presents off. Hopefully that’s made a difference.”
During their visit the players spoke with patients and families, including Henry, aged three and Demari, aged eight (pictured above).
The youngster added: “It was really exciting to meet them.”
The players spent time discussing all things football with patients, opening their gifts with them and talking to staff.
Conor, also a defender on the pitch, said: “It’s lovely to see the kids at Christmas, that are unfortunate to be in here. Seeing their faces light up when we come in, it’s rewarding for us to come here and give them this moment.”
Watch the video of the players on the wards here: