Shropshire Star

AFC Telford players deliver Christmas presents during hospital visit

Footballers took time out of their schedules to spread the Christmas spirit and hand out presents to ill children at the Princess Royal Hospital on Thursday.

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First team staff and players from AFC Telford United paid a visit to the hospital's women and children's unit, armed with bags full of presents to hand out to youngsters.

It is a Christmas tradition for the Bucks squad to visit the hospital wards, and boss Gavin Cowan along with assistant boss Phil Trainer went along with seven first team players

Daniel Udoh, Matthew Barnes-Homer, Gavin Cowan, Bobby the Buck and other players with Ava Conroy

The players met the youngsters and handed out presents, and also chatted with parents of the poorly children.

Bucks boss Cowan said visits like this one are just as important as the work his side does on the pitch.

He said: "It is such a big thing for us to come here, and we are always very keen to do it.

Bobby the Buck and Gavin Cowan with Ella and her mother Kathryn Tolley

"It is great we can take time out and come and visit these kids, and with some of them give them inspiration.

"Some of them it puts a smile on their faces for just a few moments, but it is nice to be able to do something.

"It also makes you appreciate things in life, and that there are more important things in life such as your health.

First team manager Gavin Cowan gives a present to Theo Ashley, 5.

First team players such as top goalscorer Daniel Udoh, captain Shane Sutton and Henry Cowans were in attendance handing out presents, along with mascot Bobby The Buck.

One of those who got a visit from the players five year old Theo Ashley.

His mother Amy said: "He came in yesterday and it is lovely to get a visit from the players.

"He has been spoiled with presents, and has even got a couple of football tickets."

Telford players with the nurses

Other times handed out included match day tickets and programmes.

And experienced defender Theo Streete added: "This is as important as the playing side of things.

"It is good for the club to come and do this.

"We are happy when we get three points on a Saturday, but it is just as nice to see us put a smile on a kids face by coming here."

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