Leicester Tigers brought some Christmas cheer to dozens of children and their families during a visit to Leicester's Hospitals on Friday.
Members of the first-team squad including vice-captain Aaron Mauger and England internationals Lewis Moody, Tom Croft and Jordan Crane visited the Leicester Children’s Hospital at Leicester Royal Infirmary and children’s cardiac wards at Glenfield Hospital.
The players signed autographs and posed for photos with the young patients their families and nursing staff. They also gave best wishes cards and match tickets to the children.
World Cup winner Moody said: “It is nice to be able to come round, say hello to the children and have a chat with them and hopefully put a smile on their face.”
Mauger added: “Hopefully it is a boost for the children. If we can brighten up someone’s day for a short period then that is good.”
Tigers and England fly-half Toby Flood said: “Visits like this are bitter sweet. You see the great work that the doctors and the nurses are doing and what a job they are doing for everyone but it is sad to see the children who are feeling unwell.
“The children are really excited to see the guys and players like Moody and Mauger and Alesana Tuilagi are good with them and make it enjoyable and it is nice to be a part of.
“The hospitals are on our doorstep and it is important for us to give something back.”
Tina Clegg, service manager at the Children’s Hospital, said: “The children really enjoyed meeting the players and having their photographs taken with them.
“The players lifted the spirits of the children and put a smile on their faces.”
Members of the first-team squad including vice-captain Aaron Mauger and England internationals Lewis Moody, Tom Croft and Jordan Crane visited the Leicester Children’s Hospital at Leicester Royal Infirmary and children’s cardiac wards at Glenfield Hospital.
The players signed autographs and posed for photos with the young patients their families and nursing staff. They also gave best wishes cards and match tickets to the children.
World Cup winner Moody said: “It is nice to be able to come round, say hello to the children and have a chat with them and hopefully put a smile on their face.”
Mauger added: “Hopefully it is a boost for the children. If we can brighten up someone’s day for a short period then that is good.”
Tigers and England fly-half Toby Flood said: “Visits like this are bitter sweet. You see the great work that the doctors and the nurses are doing and what a job they are doing for everyone but it is sad to see the children who are feeling unwell.
“The children are really excited to see the guys and players like Moody and Mauger and Alesana Tuilagi are good with them and make it enjoyable and it is nice to be a part of.
“The hospitals are on our doorstep and it is important for us to give something back.”
Tina Clegg, service manager at the Children’s Hospital, said: “The children really enjoyed meeting the players and having their photographs taken with them.
“The players lifted the spirits of the children and put a smile on their faces.”
