SWINDON Wildcats ice hockey players put a smile on the face of a boy recovering from brain surgery when they paid a special visit to him in hospital.

TJ Smith, 10, from Toothill, was admitted to Great Western Hospital last week when his eye started drooping.

Tests revealed a sinus infection had spread to his brain and he was transferred to Oxford Hospital for urgent surgery.

To cheer him up a family friend contacted the Wildcats team and three star players were only too happy to make the journey to Oxford and surprise super fan TJ.

TJ’s mother Nicki Smith, 32 said TJ was stunned when player head coach Aaron Nell, star forward Tomasz Malasinski and forward Toms Rutkis walked into his hospital room on Thursday.

“We didn’t tell him and when they walked in, he just looked shocked. He was very quiet at first but then he started smiling and he was the happiest I’d seen him in ages.

“They were all really nice people and came with lots of goodies for TJ which really cheered him up. They spoke to him about ice hockey.

“I just don’t think TJ could believe it.

The caring players ensured that TJ was an honorary Wildcat when they presented him with a red and white jersey and cap.

Nicki said TJ is a fervent supporter of the Wildcats and looks forward to his weekly visit to the Link Centre to watch the players battle it out on the ice.

“He loves the Wildcats and he goes with his sister every week. He’s a huge fan and his favourite player is Sam Bullas.”

The family including sister Courtney O’Brien, 15 and dad Terry Smith, 34 have stayed at TJ’s bedside as he recovers from the life-saving operation.

Nicki said: “It was the worst week of my life, we were so worried about him and we didn’t know what was going to happen. This has turned things around for us. It has made us all really happy.

As the Hazelwood Academy pupil begins six weeks of rehabilitation the Wildcats have invited him to a future game and to have a photo with the team

Nicki said: “I will be eternally grateful to the staff and doctors at Oxford hospital for the care and support they have given TJ.

“I am also so thankful to the players for coming in and uplifting our spirits. They really gave him the boost he needed and it was smiles all round.”