Walsall players deliver Christmas cheer to poorly children with annual hospital visit

Walsall FC stars played Santa to bring Christmas cheer to patients and staff on their annual festive visit to Walsall Manor Hospital.

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The entire Saddlers squad, joined by their manager Mat Sadler and mascot Swifty, toured several wards including the children's. They gave out toys to poorly children and chocolates to other patients, also stopping for selfies and signing autographs. They also took time out to play games with some of the youngsters including Hungry Hippos, Jenga - and of course table football.

Walsall FC players and mascot Swift visited the town's Manor Hospital to meet staff and patients and give presents out for Christmas.
Yahya Haval, aged seven months meets Swifty. — Walsall FC players and mascot Swift visited the town's Manor Hospital to meet staff and patients and give presents out for Christmas. Yahya Haval, aged seven months meets Swifty.

And it was a special visit this year with the Saddlers top of the League Two table going into 2025 with high hopes of promotion. The players and coaches received plenty of well wishes as they work towards that ultimate goal.

Walsall FC players met staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital and played games with them as well. Liam Gordon, Douglas James Taylor and Albert Adomah play games with Hasssan Malik, aged nine and Reet Basra, aged six. — Walsall FC players met staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital and played games with them. Liam Gordon, Douglas James Taylor and Albert Adomah play games with Hasssan Malik, aged nine and Reet Basra, aged six

Walsall FC players met staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital and gave presents out for Christmas. out. Defender David Okagbue signs an autograph for a hard working nurse

Mat Sadler said: "It's always heartwarming to visit the hospital and receive a warm welcome from staff, patients and everyone here.

Walsall FC players meet staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital at the town's Manor Hospital as they give presents out.
Liam Gordon, Connor Barrett, Jamie Jellis and Charlie Lakin have their hands full — Walsall FC players meet staff and patients at Walsall Manor Hospital at the town's Manor Hospital as they give presents out. Liam Gordon, Connor Barrett, Jamie Jellis and Charlie Lakin have their hands full

"It can be heartbreaking for kids and their families spending Christmas in hospital so if we can put some smiles on people’s faces it makes it more than worthwhile. The staff here are amazing and incredible and will be working hard over Christmas to ensure everyone is looked after.

"Many of them are fans or follow the team and we hope to put a smile on their face by bringing in the points over the festive season."