South Shields FC players visit youngsters at South Tyneside District Hospital

Players and staff brought along sackfuls of toys and games to spread festive cheer in the children’s day unit and children’s emergency department.

The donations came from supporters, players and staff in response to the club’s charitable foundation’s appeal for presents.

Jon Shaw, captain and head of professional development for the club’s academy, said: “Our club is getting bigger and we want to build upon our relationship with the local community.

“We thought there was no better way to do that than by bringing some happiness to children who are having to spend some time in hospital at such a special time of year.”

Derek Curry, the hospital Trust’s directorate manager for paediatrics, said: “We are very grateful. It’s fantastic that the club wanted to do something for our young patients.”