A number of first-team players from Margate FC made a very special visit to QEQM hospital yesterday evening.

Along with chairman Alistair Bayliss and manager Steve Watt, the footballers armed with Margate FC goody bags helped spread a little festive cheer among patients staying at the hospital's Rainbow Ward.

Alistair Bayliss said: "I'm really proud to have been involved and thrilled that our players took the time out to represent the club and get so involved.

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"We understand our role and responsibility as a football club to serve the local community and it's an area I believe we're demonstrating great strength in.

"Our visit was especially special given the time of year and a very humbling experience."

The group of players included Frannie Collin, Liam Friend, James Rogers, Ben Swift and Tom Wynter.

Steve Watt said: "It was a pleasure and a privilege to meet the staff and young patients of Rainbow Ward at the hospital.

"On behalf of everyone at the football club we'd like to wish them and their families a very merry Christmas."