Barnsley FC players spread festive cheer at hospice

Patients at Barnsley Hospice have been treated to a festive visit from Barnsley Football Club’s first team players.

Half of the team, joined by assistant manager Andreas Winkler, stopped by yesterday (13 December) to chat with patients, relatives, staff and volunteers, and deliver Christmas gifts.

Winger Lloyd Isgrove, 25, took part in the visit for the second year in a row. He said: “It’s been really nice to speak to the patients again in the run-up to Christmas. One has been telling us how we keep losing him money as he bets on us every weekend!”

Left-back Ben Williams, 19, said: “I’ve never been to a hospice before, so this is a different experience for me. I’m surprised by how bubbly everyone is and how positive the atmosphere is.”

Julie Ferry, CEO of Barnsley Hospice, added: “We always try and make Christmas as special as possible for those we care for and this is a great example of the Barnsley community working together to raise smiles and spirits. We’re very grateful for the ongoing support we get from Barnsley FC and it was fantastic to see so many players give up their time to visit us.”

Staff and volunteers will be working throughout the festive period to help patients and their families spend quality time together at Christmas.

Photo shows from left to right: Players Jake Greatorex, Liam Lindsay and Cameron McGeehan with patient Michael Snowdon.