Hampshire stars have paid a visit to a local hospital and a hospice to spread some festive cheer.

Organised by the club’s official charity, Hampshire Cricket in the Community, six Hants players took time out of their busy winter schedule to visit Southampton General Hospital (SGH) and Naomi House Hospice in Winchester.

Packed with a selection of Christmas presents, which were generously donated by staff at Hampshire Cricket and Hilton at the Ageas Bowl, three players and club mascot Roary the Lion paid a visit to the children’s ward at SGH.

James Tomlinson, Chris Wood and Lewis McManus handed out gifts, signed autographs and spoke to patients, family and staff.

Hampshire all-rounder Chris Wood said: “I’ve been lucky enough to have done this with the club a few times and it’s a real eye-opener. Just to put a few smiles on the faces of the children here is an amazing feeling and it’s unbelievably important to give back to the local community for us as a cricket club.

"On behalf of all the lads, I’d like to thank the staff at the Ageas Bowl and Hilton at the Ageas Bowl for their donation of the gifts which has let this happen.”

In the afternoon, Roary the Lion joined Hants players Jimmy Adams, Ryan Stevenson and Tom Alsop as they made the trip to Naomi House Hospice in Winchester, where the donated gifts were again gratefully received.

Rachel Funnell, Charity Coordinator for Piam Brown Ward, the Wessex Children’s cancer unit at SGH said: “The children and families hugely benefit from visits such as these, we are very grateful to Hampshire Cricket for giving their time to spread a little Christmas cheer.

"We are so grateful for all the support we receive on Piam Brown Ward and the other children’s units. It is such a pleasure to receive visitors and see the fantastic smiles on the faces of our young patients.”

Sarah Hudson, Area Fundraiser for Naomi House and Jacksplace Hospices added: “Our children and young people enjoyed a wonderful visit from members of the Hampshire Cricket team this afternoon - the weather was fine enough for a quick game outside too!

"Our girls were pampered with manicures courtesy of beauticians from Hilton at The Ageas Bowl.

"We truly appreciate the relationship we have with Hampshire Cricket in the Community and appreciate everyone who gave up their time to visit us.”