Not one, but two sports teams stopped by at Derian House Children’s Hospice to spread some Christmas cheer yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 17 December).
Footballers from Bolton Wanderers, and rugby players from Wigan Warriors, dropped off presents for the children at Chorley-based Derian House and learned more about what the hospice does to care for 400 babies, children and young people across the North West.
It was a dream come true for Bolton Wanderers super fan, Nolan, 20, who visits Derian House.
Nolan’s smile lit up the room as his favourite players – including Kyle Dempsey and Dion Charles – came to surprise him. The team signed his Bolton Wanderers calendar as well as his Bolton Wanderers shirt, and posed for photos with Nolan and his family.
Nolan’s dad, John, 54, of Darwen, said: “To see Nolan’s face was just… top banana. He was well chuffed. Especially to see all the greats. He likes every one of those players. He’s thrilled to bits. Nolan is named after player Kevin Nolan, so he’s Bolton through and through.”
The team also stopped to play FIFA with Ben, six, and players Kyle Dempsey and Dion Charles stopped to take a selfie with the excited youngster.
Dion Charles, Bolton Wanderers forward, said: “It’s incredible what these guys do here. Just seeing Nolan and the smile on his face has made it all worthwhile. I can’t put it into words – it’s very touching. Donate as much as you can because it’s a brilliant place.”
Wigan Warriors – Brad O’Neill, Zach Eckersley, Liam Byrne, and Nathan Lowe – had a look around the hospice and also had a chat with six-year-old Ben, who showed them his artwork.
The rugby players then played a game with Connor, 23 and Liam, 22, before posing for photos with the pair.
Wigan Warriors hooker, Brad O’Neill, said: “It’s a great experience to look at what Derian can offer families. It’s very eye opening. I have a daughter myself and the care you provide is pretty special. It’s unbelievable. The facilities are amazing. We’re really grateful to come and have a look around and hear some of the stories.”
Karen Edwards OBE, Chief Executive of Derian House, said: “We’re so grateful to the Wigan Warriors and the Bolton Wanderers for taking time out of their busy schedules to visit us all at Derian House.
“Our children and young people were thrilled to meet the players, and it means a lot to us to have their support this Christmas. From everyone here, we’d like to say a huge thank you.”
Derian House Children’s Hospice cares for more than 400 babies, children and young people as well as their families. The Chorley-based charity will cost £6million to run this year, and only receives a small percentage of this from funding.
Find out more: www.derianhouse.co.uk
