Rams’ players bring festive cheer to hospital patients

Players and coaching staff from Derby County brought some festive joy to patients at Royal Derby Hospital during a recent visit organised by Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity.

Head coach Paul Warne was joined by members of the men’s and women’s first team squads as they spent time with patients and their loved ones during their visit to children and adult wards.

The players visited Sunflower Ward at the children’s hospital, where they took part in a variety of activities aimed at brightening the spirits of young patients during what can be a challenging time of year.

The visit also saw the players spend time signing cards, chatting about football and meeting patients being cared for on one of the hospital’s adult medical wards.

The visit was arranged by Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity as part of its work to enhance the patient and staff experience at University Hospitals of Derby & Burton Foundation Trust.

Paul Warne said: “I know how difficult it is for people at this time of year, especially for children being in hospital around December is really tough, so we’ve just tried to come and bring some joy.

“It’s always nice to come out into the community and do things like this, it was easy to pick players because they all wanted to come.”

During their visit, the players presented a TV, a variety of toys and gifts and fibre optic Christmas trees to the children’s hospital.

Players and staff also took time to pose for photos and interact with staff and patients.

Jill Matthews, chief officer at Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity, said: “The visit by Derby County to our hospital in Derby is always a huge highlight in the Christmas calendar.

“We are so grateful that the team and staff took time out of their busy schedules to spend time giving out gifts, signing cards, chatting to adult patients and taking part in activities with our younger patients.

“It really brought a lot of joy to our patients and staff as, being in hospital, especially during the run up to the festive season, can be difficult for some patients.

“Having a chance to meet players, from a local team, really does lifts their spirits.

“Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity is happy to be able to partner with the club in this way and I’d like to thank everyone at Derby County for their generosity and time in helping make the visit special.”