Leeds United midfielder Adam Forshaw delivers festive cheer to children with cancer

Leeds United first-team players delivered some festive cheer to Leeds Children’s Hospital on Thursday afternoon, with the team able to make their first Christmas visit in over two years following COVID-19.

The players, which included Luke Ayling, Adam Forshaw, Robin Koch, Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen, Pascal Struijk, Cody Drameh and Leo Hjelde, headed straight to the city centre-based hospital following training on Thursday to visit youngsters and their families who are currently receiving care on the busy wards.

During the special visit, which was organised with the support of the club’s official charity partner Yorkshire Cancer Research, the Premier League players spent time handing out some Leeds United goody bags, which included books, teddy bears, hats, scarves and more, as well as chatting to the young patients and their loved ones, helping to lift the spirits of those who have had to spend time over the festive period in hospital and may have to continue doing so.

As part of the club’s continued partnership with Yorkshire Cancer Research, Adam Forshaw paid a special visit to the oncology ward, visiting children and teenagers who are currently being treated for cancer.

Leeds United defender and vice-captain, Luke Ayling, spoke to LUTV about the heart-warming visit, and he said: “This is always a special visit for us to be a part of, the chance to meet and hopefully put smiles on the faces of some kids and their families who have been going through difficult times, especially at this time of year, I think is really important.

"Credit as always has to go to the amazing staff for the work they do here and how great they are with all of the children. It really puts things into perspective when you realise that some people won’t be able to spend Christmas at home, whether it’s the patients or the staff, so hopefully our visit today has let them know that we are thinking about them.”

Jo Mornin, Director at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: “Christmas can be a particularly tough time of year, so to be able to invite players onto the wards and make it possible for these children and young people to meet their heroes is just brilliant.

“The incredible doctors and nurses here at Leeds Children’s Hospital really are amazing and it’s important that we recognise their hard work and dedication. We’re also thankful to the whole team at Leeds United for their continued support in helping to make these wonderful moments happen.

“As well as creating special memories for families affected by cancer, the partnership has been crucial in raising awareness of cancer signs and symptoms and the important work the charity funds across Yorkshire to help prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.”