Young patients at Queen's Hospital were treated to a visit from Santa at a Christmas party.

The event saw more than 70 youngsters, who have been cared for in departments including asthma, diabetes, haemoglobinopathy as well as the homecare team, come together for some festive fun.

Activities included arts and crafts and face painting, while there was entertainment from Jelly Jade and Skittleman.

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Lunch was provided with every child receiving a jolly snowman box of goodies, before each received a present from Santa himself, who then told a magical story.

Suki Haywood was there with daughter Isla who has cystic fibrosis and Angelman syndrome.

She said: “It was a lovely surprise to be invited. Isla had lots of fun and it was been great for her to be with other children. The party was very well organised with lots to do.”

Sherih Abdur, mum to Sanvi Mohammad, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes three months ago, added: “Sanvi had such a good time. He particularly loved his balloon from Jelly Jade and meeting Santa was a highlight.”

The event was funded by money raised at last month's Christmas ball, organised by King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity.