City stars bring festive cheers to Royal Manchester Children's Hospital
Players from Manchester City’s men’s and women’s teams delivered hundreds of presents to some of the region’s bravest youngsters
Players from Manchester City’s men’s and women’s teams spread a touch of festive cheer to hundreds of children on their annual visit to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.
Led by captains Vincent Kompany and Steph Houghton, the players split into small groups with bundles of presents and hand delivered them to every young person in the hospital.
Five football mad fans, selected by the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity, were then given an extra special treat as they teamed up with Vincent Kompany, Steph Houghton and Pep Guardiola for a City themed football tournament.
Ahead of the visit, the players pledged their support to the hospital by committing to fund two pieces of specialist equipment as part of the hospital’s One Big Wish Christmas Appeal.
The 3D pain distractor unit and upper limb exerciser will go to help the thousands of children and young people throughout the North West and beyond who receive specialist healthcare treatment at the site every year.
Commenting on the visit, Vincent Kompany said: “This is my ninth visit to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and every year I’m blown away by the spirit and bravery of all the young people we meet. It’s a difficult time of year to be spending in hospital, but the staff and volunteers do an amazing job and hopefully the children have all enjoyed today.”
Steph Houghton added: “Today I have been so inspired by the strength of the children I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. To be able to give something back to our local community and support the great work of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital is a real honour for everyone connected with the club.”
Sarah Naismith, Head of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity commented: “We cannot thank Pep and the players enough for taking the time to meet our patients over the festive period. Visits like this really do help to lift spirits and it is wonderful to see so many smiles in the hospital. The Club always goes the extra mile to ensure our patients have the best experience possible and the support we’ve received over the years from Manchester City has really helped us to make a difference to the patients treated at our Children’s Hospital.”
The visit forms part of the Club’s long-standing relationship with the hospital. This season, patients have taken part in Manchester City’s official team photo, attended VIP match day experiences and met the squad during special wish granting days.
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity will conduct a bucket collection at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday 7 April