Some of England's heroic Lionesses spread Christmas cheer by delivering gifts to children's hospitals around Manchester.
The Manchester United Women squad, including Euro 2022 winning stars such as Alessia Russo, Mary Earps and Ella Toone, spent time at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Francis House Children’s Hospice and The Christie. The players signed autographs and posed for selfies, as well as handing out United-themed presents including shirts, hats and teddies.
Midfielder Katie Zelem, whose mum was a former staff member at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, said: "It’s been amazing for us to put a smile on the children’s faces; it’s something that we really look forward to every year, that we can come and spread our energy and love to the children who hopefully will be getting better soon. We know how big of a club Manchester United is, but at the heart of it is always the community.”
QUIZ : Test how well you know festive songs with these 20 questions
Ella Toone added: “It was nice to spend some time giving gifts to some fans. It was really moving; it’s nice to show our faces and hopefully make some of the families smile.”
The men's team were unable to deliver gifts in person, instead filming video messages and helping to pack gift bags to try and spread festive joy. Club captain Harry Maguire said: “Supporting those in our local community is one of the most important things that we do as players and staff at Manchester United, especially around Christmas time.
"For us, sending well wishes and packing gifts for the hospitals, putting smiles on people’s faces is really important.”
Marcus Rashford added: “It’s obviously something that as a team we enjoy doing, supporting the children and the staff at the hospitals. To put a smile on young people’s faces and seeing them happy gives us a massive boost over Christmas.”
Read next:
-
The most Christmassy towns and villages to visit near Greater Manchester
-
The magical Christmas markets within ancient walls - 90 minutes from Greater Manchester
- Shoppers can’t get enough of 'miracle in a tube’ cream that vanishes eye bags instantly
- Aldi stocking 'perfect' mulled wine gadget than costs 68p an hour to run
