Stockport County FC players paid a Christmas visit to Stepping Hill Hospital, helping to spread festive cheer to younger patients over the season.

Players Ben Hinchliffe, Kyle Wootton, Nathan Lowe and Callum Camps together with mascot Vernon Bear visited both Treehouse children’s unit and the Children’s emergency department, taking the the time to chat, pose for photos and show their support.

The visit was arranged with the support of the unit’s play specialist team and Stockport NHS Charity.

Elsewhere during the season, a celebration Christmas dinner was held at our hospital restaurant laid on by the catering team for the hospital’s hard working volunteers, with Chair David Wakefield and Chief Executive Karen James OBE thanking them for their dedicated service.

Agape Church Choir were on hand with carols to add to the festive spirit.