FOOTBALL stars from Tottenham Hotspur brought festive cheer to children and staff at Whipps Cross Hospital.

The players made their annual trip to Acorn ward at the Leytonstone hospital last Tuesday.

The three players on the club’s visit to Acorn this year were midfielders Luka Modric and Wilson Palacios and defender Jonathan Woodgate, who took time to chat with the children and their families on the ward and handed out toys, games, cuddly animals and team memorabilia.

Eileen Elms, head of nursing for paediatrics, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed the Tottenham players' visit. Some of the children and their families were keen team supporters and were thrilled to meet the players and get their photographs taken with them – as did our staff.

"We always look forward to the players’ visit here each Christmas. It certainly helps to cheer the children up and the generous presents the players give also help to make the children’s stay on the ward at this time of year more fun.”

Jonathan Woodgate said: “I speak on behalf of all the players and staff from the club who were at Whipps Cross in saying that it was an absolute pleasure to come and meet these brave young people and their families at Christmas time.

"We came bearing gifts for all the kids and spending time with the patients and staff on the ward was the least we could do when you realise how lucky we are to be happy and healthy at this time of year.”

Andrew Evans, Dad to George, aged three, is a lifelong Spurs supporter. He said: “We were very anxious about George’s visit and meeting the players certainly perked him up and made my day.

“It’s great that the team take time out of their busy schedule at this time of year and visited the hospital that effects the local community too.”