West Brom's Steven Reid: This visit helps put everything in perspective
Young Dudley hospital patients were given a festive treat by the visit of their Albion footballing heroes.
Baggies stars Steven Reid, Victor Anichebe, Saido Berahino and Nicolas Anelka swapped the training pitch for the ward when they dropped in to spread Christmas cheer at Russells Hall Hospital yesterday.
They were joined by the club's two mascots, Baggie Bird and Albi, as they signed autographs and had photographs taken with excited youngsters and their families. The players also handed out gifts to patients.
Right-back Reid admitted it had been a humbling experience.
"It's the highlight of the visits we do throughout the year to come and hopefully cheer up the kids a little bit," he said.
"There are a few West Brom fans here who just mentioned about getting a few results over Christmas, hopefully we can deliver for them!"
On what has been a difficult few days for the club with the sacking of head coach Steve Clarke, Reid admitted visiting the hospital helped put things in perspective.
"Something like this is humbling," he added. "It brings a bit of reality to the last few days. No-one likes to see anyone lose their job but coming to the hospital and seeing the kids brings it all home and puts it into a bit of perspective."
The visit to Russells Hall followed last week's visit to Sandwell Hospital by the club.
Paula Clark, chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, added: "No child wants to spend Christmas in hospital away from their home and loved ones, so it's wonderful when their stay over the festive period with us can be made a little more pleasant.
"We look forward to the visit every year as it really is heart-warming to see the West Bromwich Albion players put a smile on the faces of the children we look after."
