Rhinos spread Christmas cheer at Leeds Children's Hospital

Players from the Leeds Rhinos men's, women's and netball teams made their annual visit to the Leeds Children's Hospital this week to hand out gifts to the patients.

Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur joined his full squad for the visit alongside Rhinos Women's player Jenna Greening and NIC Leeds Rhinos Netball players Rosie Harris and Bethany Brittain.

Each year the players donate their kit to Leeds Rhinos Foundation for a Christmas Crackers sale that raises money to buy presents for the children who will be in hospital over the festive period.

This year, the visit was made even more special thanks to a generous donation from Amazon, who supplied a variety of items, including portable DVD players, toys, baby products and other essentials, to brighten the holiday season for the children and their families.

Rhinos player James Bentley said: “It’s about us giving back to our community and helping those in need. That little bit of time we can give is important and hopefully, we can leave a lasting impression for a child and bring some joy around this Christmas time. 

“It makes you realise how lucky and fortunate we are with the job we get to do every day.

“It sends home that we are one big family and we are one big city and we are all in this together.”
NIC Leeds Rhinos Netball player Bethany Brittain said: “It’s an honour to be here in what is a difficult time to be in hospital, especially at Christmas. 

“Being able to bring a little bit of joy in that difficult time is an honour and it is nice to be able to cheer up some kids and patients, even the parents as well, and I hope that it brings a little bit of joy in the festive season”

Lisa Beaumont, Therapeutic and Specialised Play Manager at Leeds Children’s Hospital, said: “The NHS are struggling and just the things like giving out gifts and activities to children really makes a difference. 

“It’s just a real positive and it is just great to work with such a fabulous foundation!”

If you would like to donate to the Leeds Children’s Hospital Christmas appeal and find out about the Christmas Wish List visit https://www.leedshospitalschar...