Firefighters from Arnold Fire Station were joined by stars from the Theatre Royal’s annual pantomime as they handed out gifts to patients and families at Nottingham Children’s Hospital.
Santa and Mrs Claus, Ben Richards and Sherrie Hewson joined the team from Arnold Fire Station and visited the wards taking photos and spending time with patients.
TV star and Nottingham native, Sherrie Hewson, said: “It’s fantastic for us to do this. It’s great to be able to make a difference and break up their routine. I just hope we bring a little bit of light to their day, a little twinkle!”
The group visited several wards in the Children’s Hospital gifting stuffed toys donated by IKEA and sweets which were provided by Tesco.
Ben Richards, who found fame on Footballers’ Wives and Hollyoaks, said: “Both Sherrie and I have children, and she has grandchildren, so this really makes us appreciate how lucky we are. It’s fantastic to be able to give something back to families that are having difficulties.”
Ben plays the Beast in this year’s pantomime, alongside Sherrie who plays a character called Mrs Potty. Both came dressed in their full, sparkly costumes.
Jamie Crew, deputy head nurse for Children, Young People & Family Health, praised the firefighters and panto stars, saying: “It’s wonderful to have this support for the Children’s Hospital from local groups. The visit is something our patients and staff members look forward to every year.
“We really appreciate that they take time out of their busy show schedule to come and see the children and young people, who might not otherwise get a chance to experience these kinds of festivities.”
