Emily Ramsey, Lotta Okvist and Jackie Groenen at Manchester Children's Hospital.

United Women visit Royal Manchester Children's Hospital

Tuesday 10 December 2019 09:53

It is a Manchester United tradition for players to visit children’s hospitals to deliver gifts at Christmas time, and this year the women’s team were delighted to join the festivities for the first time.

Casey Stoney led her team as they visited young patients at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, the largest single-site children's hospital in the UK, which provides specialist healthcare services for children and young people throughout the North West. 

The full squad was in attendance, plus management staff, and the players gave out a number of United-themed presents including footballs, hats, scarves and signed pennants, much to the delight of those facing a Christmas away from home.
United Women make hospital visit Video

United Women make hospital visit

See what happened when Casey Stoney and her squad gave out presents at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital...

Casey Stoney said: “It’s difficult for families to be in hospital at any time of year but at Christmas it’s exceptionally difficult, so for us to come here, give out some gifts and meet the children and see the smiles on their faces is great.”

United Women’s captain Katie Zelem added: “It’s amazing that we can come down and get involved; it’s a long-term tradition for Manchester United and now that the women can come down it’s great for all the little girls and boys to see that we’re here to support them.”

Six-year-old Theo was thrilled to meet members of the women’s team, who spent time in the play room with him and delivered gifts.  He said: “They gave me some presents and played with my cars and gave me a hug. It’s been really fun and it’s made me really happy.”

Over the festive period the Manchester United first team will also be visiting children’s hospitals across Greater Manchester, spreading joy to those who need it most at this time of year.

The Christmas hospital visits are organised by Manchester United Foundation. For more information please visit mufoundation.org.

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