WIDE-EYED children staying in hospital over the holidays were overjoyed when Santa came to visit them with presents.

In the days before Christmas, Hoole resident Andrew Montgomery, gathered up mountains of presents and visited the children’s unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

The children were delighted when Santa arrived on the ward carrying toys and sweets in an attempt to cheer them up before Christmas day.

“This was a lovely gesture and we are very grateful to Andrew for his generosity”, said Fundraising Manager Janet Ratcliffe.