Dundee FC play Santa to hospital kids

Children were rewarded with teddy bears, footballs and Dundee FC merchandise. Photo: NHS Tayside

Patients at Dundee’s Ninewells Hospital were treated to a surprise visit by local football stars.

The children’s medical and surgical wards, as well as the outpatient clinics, received gifts from the team, while adult patients in one of the orthopaedic wards also got to meet and greet the players.

The annual visit by the team saw many fans get autographs and the chance to take pictures with their favourite players.

Senior Charge Nurse at the children’s surgical ward Suzie Byer said: “Tayside Children’s Hospital has a great relationship with the Dundee FC team and we love it when the players come in to visit us.

“It really helps to lift the patient’s spirits and makes them feel special during what can be a difficult time.

“The players are great with the children and always manage to make them smile. It’s also nice that they bring along presents to give them an early Christmas surprise.”

A spokesperson for Dundee FC added: “We were absolutely delighted to take in the visit to the hospital. The annual Christmas visit is one of the most rewarding things our players and club take part in throughout the year.”

Gifts passed on to the children included miniature Dundee FC training footballs, teddy bears and signed kits.