CHRISTMAS came early for patients on the children’s ward at Poole Hospital, as AFC Bournemouth players visited them and brought them presents.

First team players including Steve Cook, Jefferson Lerma, Lewis Cook and Callum Wilson, among others, spent yesterday afternoon speaking to patients and their families who are spending this festive season on the ward.

Assistant manager Jason Tindall, joined by Steve Fletcher and Neil Moss, also surprised the children.

Jason said: “This is something we really look forward to every year. When you see the smiles on the faces of the children when they see the players, it’s magical.

“There’s quite a few kids going through a rough time at the minute, to be going through that at this time of year is difficult, for their families as well.

“When you see their reaction, words can’t describe how that makes you feel. It puts a lot of things into perspective and it’s important that players spend time with these kids.”

The players wandered through the ward with presents, including woolly hats from the club, toys and footballs and the squad were happy to pose for photos with the kids and sign their gifts.

Cherries striker, Callum Wilson, said: “This is something we don’t do enough. Its nice to come and give out a few presents and see a few kids and try and make their day.

“It gives them a lift. It’s Christmas time, it’s a happy occasion and when you’re in here it’s not nice.

“We’re trying to raise their spirits more than anything. We’ve been dishing out the presents and signing them and it just makes their day. There’s a few kids playing football on the ward and it just shows you can perk them up and it gives their parents a lift as well.”

12-year-old Kian Courtney, whose favourite player is David Brooks, chatted to goalkeepers Aaron Ramsdale and Mark Travers, as well as Tindall and Steve Fletcher.

Kian said: “It’s good for the whole community and shows they care about what people do in Bournemouth and Poole.”