Paul Heckingbottom and a number of his first team squad visited the Children's Ward as well as A&E on their annual festive trip.
The Reds Head Coach, his captain, Angus MacDonald, defender Adam Jackson, midfielders Joe Williams and George Moncur, goalkeeper Adam Davies and Reds winger Adam Hammill were on hand to spend time with the kids as well as their families whilst also handing over a selection of Christmas gifts.
During the visit, the players put their hands in their pockets again to make donations on behalf of the first team squad of Barnsley FC that will be spent on specialist equipment which can help the treatment and rehabilitation of children in the units.
Paul Heckingbottom was proud to take his players along and help spread some festive cheer at what is a difficult time for children and their families to be spending in hospital.
He told us: "It’s truly a privilege to be here today as this is one of the visits that we feel passionate about and look forward to making each year.
"It puts a lot of things into perspective when you visit and shows just how fortunate we are to be able to enjoy this Christmas with our families. Some of the children here will be in hospital over the Christmas period, which is a huge strain for them and their parents, but hopefully by popping in with these gifts we’ve been able to put a smile on their faces this afternoon.
"I'd also like to thank the Hospital staff who work tirelessly throughout the year to provide incredible care to patients.
“As a Club we’re really proud of the connection that we have with our community, and it's days like today that hopefully show that we are more than just a Football Club.
"Thanks to everyone at Barnsley Hospital for giving us the opportunity to visit.”
We were taken round the hospital by Barnsley Hospital Charity Fundraising Co-Ordinator Lisa Calvert, who told us: "It was lovely to welcome the lads for taking time out at a busy time of year and show their faces to some of the kids – they’re heroes to some of them. We were really grateful for gifts as being in hospital over Christmas isn’t easy and does bring a smile to their faces in the festive season.”
During the visit, the players also met with the Barnsley Hospital Charity team who gave an update on the Tiny Hearts Appeal. The campaign aims to raise £1,000,000 to help support the relocation and development of a brand new Special Care Baby Unit at the hospital. All money raised for the Tiny Hearts Appeal will be used to ensure the unit supports the needs of the most vulnerable babies and their families. The new unit will create a warm and welcoming environment which is incredibly important at what is often a very stressful and traumatic time for families.
For more information on the Barnsley Hospital Charity Tiny Hearts Appeal, please click here. You can donate to the Appeal by texting Tiny17 plus your donation amount to 70070.
