Festive cheer for the wards

The Children’s Hospital, at The Royal London in Whitechapel, was delighted to welcome a very special guest to the wards, just before Christmas. Consolidated Developments, a local property developer, sent their very own Santa Claus and two little helpers to give out presents to the sick and injured children.

From Santa's sack, they produced one hundred toys and gifts for all the patients, from newborns to 16 year olds. They had generous gifts for the ward too, including DVD players, computer consoles and games, a TV and a football table.

The children were thrilled with their presents and loved meeting Santa, who was seen to shed a tear after giving a present to a young, blind patient. Her face lit up when she touched the buttons on her new, musical ‘mobile phone’. A nurse commented: "I haven't seen her so happy for a long time!"

A spokesperson for Barts and The London Charity said: "We are extremely grateful to Consolidated Developments for their support. Santa and his helpers brought many smiles and much excitement, and the larger presents will stimulate patients at the Children’s Hospital for many months to come. The team really gave the ward a boost - thank you for making a difference!" 

• If you would like to find out how your company could support Barts and The London NHS Trust, please call 020 7618 1720.  

Cracking success: Santa and his little helpers from Consolidated Developments were a huge hit with the patients at Christmas