Football stars visit hospice to spread Christmas cheer

Sheffield United stars - Chris Basham, Bob Harris, Paul Coutts, Conor Sammon, George Long, Dean Hammond, Che Adams, Florent Cuvelier, Harrison McGahey, Connor Dimaio and Diego De Girolamo - as well as coach Darren Ward, delivered gifts and spoke with patients, families and staff before opening the new messy room at the centre.  

Other players visited Sheffield Children’s Hospital, St Luke’s Hospice and Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity during the club’s annual community visits day to its nominated charities.

Club captain Jay McEveley said: “It’s fantastic to be able to give something back to the community which as a club, we’re committed to serving.”

Jay added the hospice was a truly incredible place and the work staff carried out was admirable.

“Visits to charities and hospices put things into context, and we’re more than happy to show our support for such amazing places and such amazing people.”

Claire Rintoul, chief executive of the North Anston hospice, said: “We’re always extremely grateful for Sheffield United’s support. 

“We care for and support children with shortened life expectancy and their families, both at home and here at our hospice.

“Visits such as this one provide love and laughter, two things which are at the very heart of what we do as a hospice.”