FOOTBALLERS are kicking off annual December tradition by meeting poorly children this Christmas to spread some festive cheer to those in need.

Middlesbrough Football Club players spent time visiting children's wards to give gifts to those in the care of the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.

George Friend, Daniel Ayala, Danny Batth, Marcus Tavernier and Martin Braithwaite donned Santa hats to pose for photos with delighted youngsters and their parents.

Lynn Dowson, hospital play specialist, said: “Every year the lads come along and put a smile on the face of every single child staying on the ward, and their parents too. It’s an absolute delight to have them here and it really is invaluable.

"At this time of year, being in hospital is the last place children and mums and dads want to be. To meet their favourite football players and get a gift too really keeps the Christmas spirit alive for everyone on the ward. A huge thank you from all of us.”

Boro coach and former player, Nunthorpe-born Jonathan Woodgate also made time to visit elderly residents at the Fountains Court care home, in Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough.

He was there to show support for a new NHS scheme designed to improve communication between hospitals and care homes.

The red bag initiative aims to shorten hospital stays by ensuring doctors, nurses and carers are able to access standardised information about care home residents prepared by residential home staff.

Mr Woodgate said: “It was my pleasure to be able to come out and meet some of our long-term supporters and the dedicated staff at Fountains Court.

“It’s a time of year for family so it’s good to see the red bag scheme helping residents like those here today avoid staying in hospital longer than they need to.”

Red bags are available in care homes across the Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland area.