DOZENS of young patients unfortunate enough to be in hospital near Christmas were given a a lovely festive surprise with a visit by the Blackburn Rovers squad.

Around 25 players, manager Owen Coyle and club mascot Rover The Dog spent more than an hour with youngsters on the Royal Blackburn Hospital’s children’s unit yesterday.

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The players clubbed together to buy calendars, cuddly toys and mini-playing kits for the sick children and left dozens of selection boxes and around 20 new board games for use on the ward over the next few months.

Among those who received a visit was two-year-old Daniel Harrison, who was about to be discharged after a stay in hospital due to respiratory problems.

Daniel proudly wore his Rovers top to meet the players and left for home with a big smile on his face.

He was with parents Ian Harrison and Anna Sayers.

Ian said: “It was terrific for Daniel to see the players, as it was for me as a Rovers fan.

“They were great fun and and Charlie Mulgrew, Anthony Stokes and Liam Feeney were great with him.”

One of the youngest patients on the ward is two-week old Marnie, who is getting stronger after birth complications.

Her dad, Daniel Garton, of Oswaldtwistle, said: “It’s brightened up our day, the players were so nice.

“A lot of them came in to say hello and she was a real hit with the players.”

The East Lancashire football divide was was also crossed when Marvin Emnes and Hope Akpan gave presents to two-year-old Lola, in hospital with pneumonia, who was being looked after by mum Siobhan Kitley, from Burnley.

Club captain Jason Lowe said: “All the players were keen to come along and bring some gifts for the patients and staff.

“We’ve met some terrific and brave children and their families and have all been impressed with the dedication of the staff who do so much to care for them. It’s been a pleasure to be here.”