Christmas cheer brought to children at QA thanks to the efforts of Pompey players and Father Christmas
Christmas cheer has been brought to children at Queen Alexandra Hospital thanks to the efforts of Pompey players Zak Swanson and Callum Lang who helped Father Christmas deliver presents.
The duo made a visit to Smyths Toys Superstores in Portsmouth to stock up on gifts following donations from the entire first team squad. They then headed to QA Hospital to hand over the goodies, which will be distributed by the nurses to children in the paediatric wards.
More presents have also been donated to Naomi House and Jacksplace Hospices, who provide specialist nursing and respite care for young people in the south.
Lang said: “It’s never nice for children and their families to have to stay in hospital – but that’s especially true at this time of year.
“All the lads wanted to help out and a spread a bit of Christmas cheer, so hopefully we’ve been able to put a few smiles on faces.
Swanson added: “Langy and I enjoyed our shopping trip and hopefully we were able to pick up some good toys.
“We hope that those children currently in hospital are still able to have a merry Christmas and we’d also like to give a special mention to all the doctors and nurses who do such a great job of looking after them.”
Kate Sandys, head of charity at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, said: “It was a great pleasure to welcome Zak and Callum to QA.
“They came laden with gifts for children who will be with us over Christmas. They had personally picked out the gifts following donations made by the squad, which made it even more special.
“We’d like to thank the club and the players for their support and wish them well with their matches over the busy festive period. PUP!