PATIENTS at a Teesside cancer care centre they call their “haven” received a surprise boost when Middlesbrough FC star Jonathan Woodgate called in for a visit.

The defender toured James Cook University Hospital with patrons to see first-hand Trinity Holistic Care Centre’s in-patient support for cancer sufferers and their families.

The visit was part of the centre’s prize after topping a public poll run by charitable movement Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.

The centre, which provides emotional and practical support to patients with a cancer diagnosis, also received £2,500 as part of the foundation’s latest £10,000 Goalden Giveaway.

As a result of the cash boost, it has launched a counselling service and expanded its inpatient bedside service.

After chatting to patients in various wards, Middlesbrough-born Woodgate said: “I didn’t know anything about the Trinity Holistic Care Centre’s work before today but it’s clear they do a fantastic job.

“The staff work so hard to try to make life a little easier for people who are obviously going through a hard time in their lives. It was nice to help put smiles on a few faces by chatting about Boro around the wards.”

Other Teesside community groups to receive a share of the £10,000 Goalden Giveaway were: Tapshoes and Tutus School of Dance, Billingham (£1,500); Pennyman Primary Academy, Middlesbrough (£1,000); Loftus Dolphins Swimming Club (£1,000); Community Campus, Billingham (£1,000); 1st Saltburn Scout Group (£750); My Sisters Place (£750); Breckon Hill Community Enterprise (£500); Swerve Table Tennis Club, Middlesbrough (£500); Middlesbrough Live at Home Scheme (£500).

For more details about the Philanthropic Foundation, visit www.teessidecharity.org.uk