- West Ham defenders James Collins and Reece Oxford visited Queen’s Hospital in Romford
- The pair handed out gifts to a number of youngsters ahead of Christmas
- Both Hammers explained how great it was to put a smile on the children’s faces
James Collins and Reece Oxford helped spread a little Christmas cheer last week when they paid a visit to the children’s ward at Queen’s Hospital in Romford, Essex.
The Hammers pair went straight from training at Rush Green to hand out presents and spend some time with the youngsters, who face spending the festive period undergoing treatment and recovery care.
Many of the children on the ward were West Ham fans and their delight at getting the opportunity to meet a couple of their heroes was clear to see.
“Just to be able to come and say hello, give them a little gift and show that we are supporting them and thinking of them means a lot, especially at this time of year.
“It’s obviously tough to see, but nice at the same time to come down. They have supported us through some tough times recently so it’s good to come and give the kids a little present and let them know we are supporting them.
“With kids myself, I know it must be an awful situation to be in at this time of year so it’s great to come down and say hello.”
Oxford, who this week put pen to paper on a new four-and-a-half-year contract, was also pleased to show his support at Christmas.
“It’s been good to see the kids smiling,” said Reece. “I really hope we can do it again next year.
“The fact that supporters like this are still supporting us even though they are ill really means a lot to us.
“I’m still young myself and I know what a big thing and how much it can mean to youngsters when players take the time out to do this.
“When a big player would have come to my school when I was a kid, I loved it and it made me smile and made me feel happy so it’s great to come down and do the same for these kids here today.”