CHILDREN were treated to an early Christmas present as Swindon Town footballers visited them in hospital.

Twelve Robins players visited Great Western Hospital’s children’s unit to hand out gifts and spend time with the young patients.

Players who visited the ward include Joe Romanski, Jordan Young, Sol Pryce, Kaiyne Woolery, Elijah Adebayo, Keshi Anderson, Lawrence Vigouroux, Steven Alzate, Will Henry, Scott Twine, Martin Smith and assistant manager Noel Hunt.

Catherine Newman, head of funding for Brighter Futures, said: “The club is always very supportive of the children’s ward and their visit has really cheered them up over this festive period.

“Getting to see the smile and the excitement on their faces was fantastic, it made all the difference.”

However, it wasn’t just patients that were excited to meet the football players, but also staff to as they posed for pictures with them.

Swindon Town FC manager Richie Wellens said: “As a football club, being part of the community is one of the most important things. It’s important the players and staff give something back.

“With these events, especially at this time of year, I think it’s important that the players interact with the supporters.”