Charity seeks help to spread Christmas cheer to cancer patients in Sheffield this Christmas

Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity is hoping to provide gifts and treats to those in hospital on Christmas Day and receiving treatment over the festive period.

Its Christmas Star appeal, sponsored by Napoleons Casino, will help pay for treats including Christmas dinner for patients’ relatives, Christmas Day gifts, crackers and trimmings.

Last year the appeal raised £37,000, with cash also helping to fund research projects and support ongoing care provision for patients living with cancer in the region.

Steve Howard, aged 65, has spent his last two Christmas Days dressed up as Santa and delivering presents to patients on the wards at Weston Park Hospital.

The former hospital porter said: “It’s only fair that during this special time of year those who may be celebrating their final Christmas or their toughest one yet can do so with the same atmosphere that we all love during this time.

“I have spent many years at Weston Park Hospital and feel passionately about delivering the best quality of care, not just at Christmas, but all year round.

“It’s important to remember that whilst we’re tucking into our Christmas dinners at home, there are some of us having to spend time in hospital with an uncertain outlook for the future.

“I always do what I can to raise a smile- and at Christmas, no matter how old, patients like to have a visit from Santa and receive a special gift to make their day just that little bit brighter.”

Visit www.Christmasstarapppeal.org.uk or text WPCC15 followed by the amount you would like to donate to 70070.