Oldham Athletic players and management visited Royal Oldham Hospital yesterday to hand out presents to children who are not fortunate to be home for Christmas.
In association with the Safeguard Group, the club appealed for toy donations for youngsters this Christmas and the support received was overwhelming.Manager Lee Johnson and his assistant Tommy Wright were accompanied by club captain Adam Lockwood, team captain Liam Kelly and a host of first team players as every child in the ward received presents.
Johnson said: "We delivered gifts all around the ward, meeting the parents and making sure everyone is alright. Chaddy is the main attraction and we've brought him here and the children have really enjoyed it.
"As a father myself, I have a six year old girl and you see the people here and you just want to bring a little bit of sunshine into their lives. It's such a nice feeling knowing that people are on the way up and the nurses and doctors do a fantastic job at this time of year.
"This is the third year I have been here now and every time everyone has been welcoming. It's not a nice thing to do but it is very rewarding."
Lockwood added: "It's not nice for children to be hospital, especially not at this time of year, so if we have done anything to lift spirits then we're happy to do so.
"I can speak for all the lads and staff to say that it is very rewarding. It's not only the children but the nurses as well. They offer a great service and should be applauded for what they do."
Pictured are the players and management with staff at the Royal Oldham Hospital.