• Bolton Wanderers first-team players, management and Lofty the Lion visit Royal Bolton Hospital
• The squad shared presents with patients who are currently staying in hospital this festive period
• Visit spread festive cheer and boosted morale for Bolton’s NHS staff

The Bolton Wanderers squad and management have delivered gifts and festive cheer to NHS staff, patients and visitors as part of their annual Christmas visit to Royal Bolton Hospital.

Players from the first-team, manager, Steven Schumacher, and club mascot, Lofty the Lion, gave up their time to speak to patients on B1, B2, B3, B4, Complex Care and the Children’s Ward E5.

During their visit they handed out presents to those who are spending time in hospital this festive period, as well as signing autographs and having pictures.

Steven said:

It’s nice to come and say hello to everyone at the hospital. We’ve brought a few gifts with us and had time to meet with the staff.
“We’ve had some great chats and seen if everyone is ok. It’s such a festive time of year and hopefully people can get home for Christmas.

Patients were thrilled to get an opportunity to meet the squad, including a 100-year-old patient who is a life-long Wanderers supporter.

Angela Kelly, Infection, Prevention and Control Nurse at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

We’re so delighted Bolton Wanderers have been able to come to our hospital. It’s absolutely amazing for staff to see the community spirit. Patients, staff, everybody is thrilled to bits to see them and it fills us with joy at Christmas.

 

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People in Bolton can support Our Bolton NHS Charity by donating to their Christmas appeal, which is helping to bring warmth and reassurance to vulnerable patients, and the gift of care right where it is needed.