IMG_0897.JPGArsenal footballers David Raya and Kieran Tierney visited the children’s ward at the Royal Free Hospital earlier this week, delivering gifts to patients and meeting families and staff.

The players met children currently being cared for on the children’s ward as well as one family staying in the neonatal unit.

Elliot Sandamas, 12, is a big Arsenal fan and was overjoyed to meet the two players. He added: “I was so excited to meet them and also a bit nervous. My family are all Arsenal so everyone will be very jealous that I meet them.”

Kay Stone, mum of 13-year-old Dora, said it was a pleasure for her and her daughter to meet the players, even though she and her husband support Spurs. “It was great for them to come in – a lovely initiative for the players to do this time of year. It’s so nice for the children to have a visit like this while staying in hospital.

The players also met newborn twins Jhené and Josiah as well as their mum Sian Gillard. 

Sian added: “It’s amazing to meet the players and to have a photo with them and the twins. It’s only been a week since they were born and we hope to go home soon.”

Image: Elliot Sandamas with David Raya and Kieran Tierney.