Rotherham United were privileged to once again be invited out into the community this Christmas for our annual visits to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, the Rotherham Hospice and the Rotherham Hospital.
Paul Warne’s players and staff visited the trio of local charities on Thursday 19th December, with every single member of his squad making themselves available for the festive trips to some of the area’s most special and cherished organisations.
Accompanied by Head of Community Jamie Noble and other club staff, the Millers delivered chocolate selection boxes to staff and patients alike, signing autographs and engaging in conversation with all those in attendance at the hospices at North Anston and Broom and the hospital at Moorgate.
Joining the Millers at the Rotherham Hospice and Rotherham Hospital this year were the entirety of the Rotherham United Academy players, who had also volunteered to give up their afternoon to show their support to our friends at both venues.
Speaking after another year of successful festive visits, boss Warne once again reiterated the importance of the club’s role in the community, placing emphasis on the need to try and spread some festive cheer to patients and staff alike at the aforementioned hospices and hospitals.
"It is pretty essential that we go, I think,” he explained.
"Going out to hospices and hospitals at Christmas is great and it is humbling as well. I wouldn't say that it knocks the stuffing out of the lads but they are in the car park after with a real appreciation for what they've got and what they do for a living and what they are able to do.
"It might just put smiles on people's faces. Sometimes just seeing the smiles on the nurse’s faces is enough because not everyone is a Millers fan.
"We should get out in the community, I'm big on that.
“As the people of this town and beyond are well-aware, these are an incredibly special places which we are lucky to have on our doorstep.
“We were once again honoured to be invited out to see our friends across all three venues again this year and were delighted to take them up on their offer as we continue to offer our support to their fantastic work.
“I hope that the presence of some of my players and staff helped to bring a smile to the faces of staff and patients alike this Christmas.”