Members of the Iron squad visited the Disney Ward of Scunthorpe General Hospital on Tuesday afternoon.
They took with them a wealth of gifts, which were funded by the players themselves and Scunthorpe United’s Community Sports and Education Trust.
A number of items were bought specifically for the ward to be enjoyed by all the children who unfortunately have to spend time there at any point during a calendar year.
For those who were inpatients on the ward and in the children's outpatient section, it provided smiles all-round.
Iron captain Rory McArdle was one of the players who journeyed to Scunthorpe General Hospital. He said: "We all talk about Christmas spirit and looking out for people, and trips like this always provide a sense of perspective. Fingers crossed, everyone is going to make it home for Christmas. You also realise the importance of the staff here, who put in so much time and care to make sure everyone gets looked after as quickly as possible.”
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Jak Alnwick added: “People go through tough times at Christmas and there will be kids in here over the festive period. A lot of people take things for granted but when you see them smiling after going through tough times puts things into perspective. There is a bigger world out there and it’s so important to see the work that the staff put in here.”
Lee Novak, who also took time out to visit the Disney Ward commented: "If you can help the kids smile for a bit it’s massive. If it gives them a little lift, then it’s well worth it. It was great to see them happy and playing with the toys. I have a little girl myself so can only imagine what the parents are going through. You don’t want to see kids in hospital but hopefully they’re on the mend and will get out for Christmas.”
Nicky Curtis, who works at the hospital, said: "As a whole, for the ward it’s hugely positive. The kids and staff get excited and look forward to it, and all the different things the players have done has been fantastic. We’re really grateful. We know Scunthorpe United never fail us. The players always come and see the kids, and everyone gets excited about it and it lifts the whole place."
Lisa Hensby, who organised the Little Dinosaur Toy Appeal which was supported by the club, also joined the Iron players on the day to donate additional gifts as part of the toy appeal.
We will have a video from the day online in the run-up to Christmas. Click here to see a full photo gallery.