A HEALTHY dose of generosity brought festive cheer to the children’s ward at York Hospital.

Nether Poppleton-based Bannatyne’s Health Club had asked its members to donate gifts for children aged between six hours and 16 years old who were in the hospital over Christmas.

The response was excellent, with a large collection of gifts being left under the Christmas tree in the club’s café/bar. General manager Rachel Armstrong and her colleague Tracey Wilson played the role of Santa, visiting the ward with a sack full of presents.

The visit was organised with the support of children health matron Jill Crampton.

Rachel said: “The reaction we received from the children was amazing, they were really grateful for the presents. “Throughout the year we try and do our bit for the community and this has been very successful. Our members have been very generous and they have helped bring a bit of Christmas cheer to children who had to spend Christmas in the hospital.”