05 Dec #Ipswich footballers to pay Christmas visit to Children’s Unit
Footballers from Ipswich Town Football Club will on Thursday (8th Dec) pay their traditional Christmas visit to the Children’s Unit at Colchester General Hospital.
The players have paid for presents such as teddy bears, stationery sets and chocolates which they will hand out to children on the unit and to any brothers or sisters who may be with them.
In addition, they will leave presents on the unit which can be enjoyed by children all-year round, such as toys, DVDs, portable DVD players and arts and crafts materials.
The five players scheduled to visit are defenders Josh Emmanuel and Myles Kenlock, midfielders Jonathan Douglas and Adam McDonnell, and striker Freddie Sears.
Freddie Sears, who signed for Town from Colchester United in January 2015, said: “The team visit six local hospitals and hospices around this time every year and it’s something we enjoy doing.
“If we can make someone in hospital feel a little better by giving them a gift or spending some time with them, then we’re all for it.”
The players will also sign autographs and chat with parents and staff during their visit, which is expected to last about an hour.
Kim Ness, Sister on the Children’s Ward, said: “Ipswich Town have been loyal, committed and much-valued supporters of the Children’s Unit over many, many years.
“This is deeply appreciated by all the staff who, along with the children and parents, really enjoy meeting the players. When they visit, we know that Christmas is just around the corner!”
The Children’s Unit consists of a ward, assessment centre, elective care unit and outpatient department, and serves children 0-16 from all over Colchester, Tendring and Halstead and the Colne Valley.
