THERE were happy faces as football stars met unwell youngsters and handed out presents on their annual visit to a children’s ward.

Four Ipswich Town players took time out of preparations for their match tomorrow at home to Reading to visit the children’s ward at Colchester General Hospital.

The players paid for gifts, which included selection boxes and club merchandise and handed them out to ill children on the ward.

The stars also left DVDs, books and CDs at the unit which will be used all year round by the poorly youngsters.

Defender Jordan Spence, midfielders Flynn Downes and Tristan Nydam and striker Freddie Sears all took part in the visit.

Spence said it was nice to be able to visit the ward.

He said: “At this time of year seeing the children is something we look forward to doing.

“Of course, none of the children really want to be here but anything we can do to make it a little easier for them is well worth the time.

“The four of us who came today all know the area and we have plenty of fans in Colchester so it’s good to be able to reach our wide fanbase.

“We’ve brought some chocolate along with us today and that always go down well.”

The Championship players also signed autographs and spoke to parents of the children during the visit which last for about an hour.

Former Colchester United striker Freddie Sears also visited the ward with his team-mates and said it was something he had been looking forward to.

He said: “Christmas visits to hospitals and hospices have become a tradition in football and it’s one that myself and my teammates really enjoy.

“Seeing the smiles we put on the children’s faces is a very humbling experience.”

Daniel Walsher’s daughter Kacey is being treated on the ward and said it was a pleasant surprise to see the players.

He joked: “We’re West Ham fans but it’s still good to see them.

“For her it’s an extra Christmas present and she seems happy with it.”

Gail Jenkins, the matron for children’s services at the hospital, said: “Ipswich Town have been loyal supporters of the children’s unit for decades.

“Their annual visit is always one of the highlights of our year.

“On behalf of all the staff, children and parents, I would like to thank them for their generosity and for remembering us again at this special time.”

The players’ visit followed a pantomime performance of Cinderella by the Starlight Children’s Foundation on Wednesday.

Sarah Amos, senior play specialist at the hospital, explained why the events are important.

She said: “They’re something different for the children and the staff and we all look forward to them.”