Exeter footballers spread festive cheer

Players visit RD&E

Children, babies and teenagers in hospital received a surprise visit from Exeter City footballers, as part of the club’s community day. Pierce Sweeney, Will Aimson, Gary Woods, Janic Wildschut, Tom Carroll and Reece Cole, along with manager Gary Caldwell and club mascot Grecian the Lion headed to the RD&E.

They also held a get-together for older fans at St James Park.

The group distributed gifts to children on the Bramble Ward and spent time talking to the children, some of whom will be spending this Christmas in hospital, and their families.
 
Gary Caldwell, said: “The players who attended all have children themselves, so I think it means they can empathise that bit more with the families of the children on the ward.
 
“Thanks to the donations we received, along with the players’ contribution, we were able to take in some really lovely gifts.”

Nevada Construction, Smyths Toys Superstore, Cans4City, Grecian Goal and the Exeter City Supporters’ Club,as well as a whip round by players means the group was able to take more than £1,000 worth of toys and gifts to the ward.
 
 The visit was organised with the help of Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, which has officially launched this week following a rebrand of the RD&E Charity.
 
Royal Devon Hospitals Charity community fundraiser, Debbie Allen, said: “It was a really special afternoon for young patients at the RD&E. We can’t thank manager Gary and his players enough for giving up their time to pop in and bring so many smiles to so many faces.

Whilst one group of players were at the hospital, another were spending time with older city fans, at the club’s annual Seniors’ Christmas Social event at St James Park. The fun festive event was supported by contributions from the club and the Supporters’ Trust.
 
First team players and members of the Exeter City Women squad joined the event, which saw guests enjoy a meal, bingo, a game of skittles, a tour of the ground and a visit to the club museum.