'Incredible' scenes as Bristol City footballers meet young fans at children's hospice

ITV News' Ross Arnott was invited along to speak to the children and players.

Bristol City footballers have made a special visit to the children's hospice this festive season.

Christmas came early for the young people at Children's Hospice South West and their families as the players popped in to sign autographs, take photos, and have a chat with them.

It's something the club does every year, and this time, ITV News was invited along.

One mum said: "It's lovely, it's something magical in a world where there's a lot of struggles, a lot of challenges. It's nice to be able to come and experience something wonderful."

A father explained: "We just can't believe we really have the chance to see all of them there. It's great for the kids and for me too."

And a mum told ITV News: "We're all Bristol City fans so it's really nice that they take the time out to do this."

Another said: "It's all about making memories at the end of the day. So we try to make as many memories, lots of fun times."

The players even had time for a kick-about with some of the children Credit: ITV News

Amand Leonard, Children's Hospice South West area fundraiser, said: "It's been absolutely incredible. Always. It's put a smile on lots of families' faces today and the children are big fans of Bristol City football team.

"It's wonderful for them to come down to see our families and the whole squad have come today as well and they all look forward to seeing us every year. They're absolutely huge supporters of our charity."

That support is invaluable to the hospice that needs more than £4 million in donations every year to stay open.

Jason Knight, Bristol City captain, said: "It's really good. It gives you a lot of perspective around Christmas. It's amazing to come down again.

"We've seen a lot of kids that were here last year so it's great to have those relationships and seeing them still enjoying themselves and looking forward to us coming down.

Zak Vyner, Bristol City defender, said: "I think when you hear 'children's hospice' it's, you know, pretty doom and gloom what you imagine.

"But here it's so happy and everyone's smiling and just having fun. If we can add to that, we can do anything. We've been coming here for a long time and long may it continue."

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