Players pay Christmas visit to Derian House

Andrew Lonergan, Jay Spearing and Neil Danns three of those in attendance at Chorley-based facility

Eight members of the Bolton Wanderers first team squad took time out of their schedule to visit Derian House children’s hospice in Chorley earlier this week.

Derian House is renowned throughout the region as being at the forefront of children’s palliative and respite care and is currently caring for over 300 families who have a child with a life-shortening illness.

Andrew Lonergan, Conor Wilkinson, Dean Moxey, Jay Spearing, Liam Feeney, Liam Trotter, Neil Danns and Ross Fitzsimons were all in attendance on what was a moving afternoon for all involved.

The group first met a group of patients and staff to whom they distributed a range of presents and posed for pictures with, before they were later given a tour of the facility.

Following the visit, club captain Jay Spearing said: “I cannot speak highly enough about the work Derian House does for poorly youngsters. From just spending an afternoon walking around and meeting the kids you can see how much of a difference they make.

“It is always very humbling and rewarding to go out into the local community, especially at Christmas, and today was no different.

“All the lads enjoy coming here and interacting with the kids. It was great to see their little faces light up when we walked into the room. We always try our best to spread a little festive cheer and hopefully our visit did just that.” 
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