YOUNGSTERS in hospital at Christmas time were thrilled by an exciting visit from the entire Cherries squad.

AFC Bournemouth players and staff went to spread some festive cheer at Poole Hospital children’s ward, to the delight of the young patients.

Each year the club visits to hand out presents, pose for pictures and sign autographs and this year manager Lee Bradbury and his assistant Russ Wilcox took the whole squad and club chaplain Andy Rimmer along.

They spent the afternoon on the children’s ward making it a day to remember for patients, relatives and staff before leaving to concentrate on their preparations for their Boxing Day fixture at Brentford.

“Unfortunately not everyone is lucky enough to spend Christmas Day at home with their loved ones, and we want to show our support for them,” said Lee, who has visited the hospital a number of times.

“It was great to meet the children and see their faces when we gave out early Christmas presents.

“The hospital have a really understanding and supportive staff, and they do everything they can to help the children in their care and it’s comforting to know the children and their families can rely on that,” he said.

Andy said: “The visit to Poole Hospital was a real success, and sometimes when you help to make a child’s day, it can lift everyone around them, parents and staff.

“We were all impressed by the care and attention the patients receive from the staff, and the whole club would like to wish everyone at the hospital a Merry Christmas.”