Nine West Ham players spread some Christmas cheer when they visited poorly children at King George Hospital in Goodmayes.

They were Kevin Nolan, James Collins, Stewart Downing, Matt Jarvis, Razvan Rat, James Tomkins, Matt Taylor, Jack Collison and Stephen Henderson.

The players took on the role of Santa to deliver Hammers goodies to the Clover Children’s Ward and The Cedar Centre.

Defender Tomkins said: “It’s nice to give a little back to the community, meet the kids and see the hospital staff doing a good job.

“We just pray they get home for Christmas which is what everyone wants to see.

“Of course, it’s nice for the whole place to see smiles on faces as hospitals can be quite down places at times. I just think it’s good for us to give a bit back and show our support for the staff.”

The players also signed autographs and posed for photos, proving a hit with children, parents and staff.

Staff nurse Terri Shepherd said: “They are all pretty good looking to be honest and it’s nice that the local team come to support the local residents from the area.

“On a serious note, at this time of year, it’s nice to get people together and spread a little festive cheer.”