Players spread festive cheer
This afternoon saw the clubs annual trip to the Royal Oldham Hospital children’s ward as players, management and staff went to deliver the toys so generously donated by Latics fans in our Christmas toy appeal, in association with the Safeguard Group.
The first team squad descended upon the children’s ward to visit those who aren’t fortunate enough to be able to spend Christmas at home, they were of course accompanied by Chaddy the Owl who entertained children, parents and nurses alike! Every child received at least one present with dozens more being left in communal play areas and set aside for Children who are admitted over the festive period.
Manager Lee Johnson, who attended said “It has been a humbling experience, it’s great to be able to put a smile on the faces of the Children though obviously it’s saddening that some of them won’t be home for Christmas. The amount of toys that supporters donated was unbelievable and it’s good that the lads can give something back to the community".
Latics Commercial Manager Jenny Warburton, who co-ordinated the appeal added “The response to the toy appeal has been overwhelming with hundreds of toys arriving at the club, I’d like to thank our supporters for their generosity and to Ben and his team at Safeguard for backing the appeal. This is the third year I’ve been to the hospital and it’s a really emotional time, seeing the Children who will be spending Christmas on a ward but also, seeing their faces light up when the players and Chaddy walk in to see them. It’s important that we as a club recognise our place within the community and do what we can to help.”