THE spirit of Christmas cheer was rife at Burnley General Hospital as Burnley FC players came to visit.

England internationals Joe Hart and Tom Heaton joined other member's of the 1st team squad at the East Lancs Children and Adolescents ward.

The players handed out lots of signed goodies including cuddly toys and footballs.

The youngsters talked about their favourite players and what it was like to play football.

When asked about his time at the hospital, Joe Hart, who had signed for Burnley in August, said: "It's important, especially at this time of the year.

"Putting a smile on people's faces is a great thing."

Callum Harper, 9, met Tom Heaton and asked him for his autograph.

Callum said: "I had a really good time.

"The players are great, I thought Joe Hart was really tall."

Lisa Waterhouse, who was with her son Ryan and daughter Alisha Begum, said the players help make the children's day.

Tom Heaton said it was a great occasion for the squad to come down and see the children.

He said: "It’s really nice to sort of be involved in it, especially with it being the local Burnley hospital, we all get down to see the staff, the people who’re in here and just try to bring that Christmas spirit really.

"Obviously, it’s never great seeing anyone in hospital never mind kids of this age.

"If we can spread a bit of cheer then, from our point of view its brilliant."