Bolton footballers spread Christmas joy at children’s hospice

18 Dec 2019 09:45
Published by: Daniel Almond

 

FOOTBALLERS from Bolton Wanderers were greeted with big smiles when they dropped into Derian House Children’s Hospice on a festive toy run this afternoon (Tuesday, 17 December, 2019).

 

Club captain Jason Lowe, who is an ambassador for the Chorley-based charity, brought along his team-mates to give out gifts and visit the seriously ill children.

 

After spending time with the children and chatting to staff, the players even made a surprise visit to the retirement party of Clinical Educator Trish Clarkson who was leaving the hospice after 20 years’ service.

 

The players – whose personal donations had paid for the gifts – also took a tour of the refurbished hospice, played games with the children and posed for pictures with staff.  

 

Jason Lowe, who got involved with the charity after being humbled by its work during the visit last Christmas, said: “I feel so proud to come back to Derian this year as ambassador and to see the refurbished hospice which looks wonderful.

 

“For the players, this is such a privilege, and an experience that we all enjoy. It’s our pleasure to come along and put a smile on the kids’ faces and give something back to our community.”

 

Derian House Children’s Hospice looks after more than 400 children and young people with life-limiting conditions throughout the North West.

 

Miriam Payne, Events and Promotions Manager at Derian House, said: “We’re really grateful to the Bolton players for bringing some festive cheer into Derian. The children were absolutely thrilled with their gifts and it means a lot to us to have their support, especially from our ambassador Jason Lowe who always goes above and beyond to get behind the work we do.”

 

You may be interested in