Patients who spent Christmas Day at Queen's and King George hospitals were given a selection of presents this week.

Staff helped to spread festive cheer on the wards by handing out gift bags to adult patients, which included a puzzle book, grown-up colouring book and a selection box.

Meanwhile, new mums received hand creams, as well as a soft toy for their newborns and children were given donated toys.

Anita O’Donnell, deputy matron for specialist medicine at the trust, said: “It’s never nice to be in hospital over Christmas, and we understand it’s even more difficult for our patients this year.

“We can really see the difference giving presents makes to our patients each year. They help them to feel a bit more festive and remind them that we’re thinking of them.”

The present drop was organised by Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the two hospitals in Romford and Ilford.