Arsenal players surprise children’s ward

Five Arsenal footballers paid a surprise visit to the children’s ward at the Royal Free Hospital yesterday afternoon, delivering gifts to our patients and spreading Christmas cheer.

Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Wojciech Szczęsny, Mikel Arteta and Calum Chambers posed for photos with children on the ward and their parents, as well as staff.

Despite being a Spurs fan, Paul Barrowcliff said his seven-year-old son Liam was delighted the Arsenal players paid a visit. “He is football mad,” said Mr Barrowcliff. “He will be able to tell all his friends about this and they brought some great gifts.”

Puja Upadhyaya, 16, said it was an overwhelming surprise to see the players. “My cousins are all Arsenal fans, so it was really nice,” she said. “I’m leaving today so I’m glad they brought me a hat and a scarf!”