VIDEO: Albion stars bring cheer to Sandwell Hospital
Baggies stars brought some Christmas cheer to youngsters at Sandwell General Hospital as they paid their annual festive visit to the children's ward.
West Bromwich Albion captain Darren Fletcher joined James Morrison, Rickie Lambert and James McClean in handing out early Christmas gifts to the excited children yesterday.
For midfielder Morrison, he think it's important to take time away for the game and visit those that could be facing the prospect of spending Christmas in the wards.
He said: "I've been coming here now for nine years and it's always nice to get down and away from football.
"The most important bit is making kids smile and making them feel better leading up to Christmas and putting them in a good place."
Games consoles, provided by training partner FCL, and signed footballs were just some of the goodies presented to the children.
According to staff, many are keen Albion fans and the day provides Christmas cheer for the youngsters every year.
Morrison also admitted Christmas is a busy time for him, with his daughter playing a big part in his festive plans.
He added: "I've got a two-year-old. So she knows what Santa's about now so it's a good time. We've met Santa a couple of times so I'm excited for her."
Joy Haywood, Paediatric Ward Manager at Sandwell, reserved special praise for the Premier League stars on their visit.
She said: "The buzz from the Albion players coming is always very good at this hospital. It lifts the whole unit really.
"The kids really enjoy meeting them and the players are really good, they always like to have a chat.
"We, obviously, have a high percentage of kids that are Albion fans and they enjoy all the presents they get – it keeps them going.
"It's nice that the Baggies have supported us for a number of years and they come every year faithfully supporting us.
"There are a few kids that we'll try and get home for Christmas day but we do have some long-stay patients who will stay in over Christmas."
