Club’s goal to cheer up patients

Robbie Meakin, Club Ambassador for AFC Wolverhampton City, is working with its supporters to collects toys and games to be donated to New Cross Hospital’s Children’s Ward in time for Christmas.

He has set up donation points at a host of home fixtures at the club’s ground at Castlecroft Stadium, Castlecroft Road, WV3 8NA, in the run up to the festive period.

Robbie explained: “I’ve spent a lot of time in hospital this year.

“I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer of the colon and liver and I’ve spent hours galore having chemotherapy. I’ve had a couple of surgeries; I’ve been poked and prodded and had scans galore. It really gets you down.

“Despite how amazing the staff are, nobody wants to be in hospital and with Christmas coming up I couldn’t help but think of the children that will be spending their time in hospital over the festive period. Time that should be spent with family and friends, at home, enjoying the magic of Christmas.

“I’m no Santa Claus but I decided to do something that will put smiles on faces of those on the Children’s Ward this Christmas and the club were more than happy to get on board. I really hope that people get behind what we’re trying to do, and we end up with bags upon bags full of toys and games to bring down with us to spread joy to the children and make their time in hospital that little bit better.

Donations will be accepted at the following fixtures – entrance to the matches isn’t required as toys and games can be left at the gate or at reception, for the attention of Robbie Meakin or Clive Morris.

October 28 v Birmingham OJM – 7.45pm kick off

November 8 v Winsford United – 3pm kick off

November 12 v Dudley Athletic – 7.45pm kick off

November 22 v Coton Green – 3pm kick off

November 29 v Stourport Swifts – 3pm kick off

Robbie added: “At AFC Wolverhampton City, we take pride in being a community club, a club for the people, a hub for the area. This is our city and we love it and our people. We care.”

People can also contact Robbie via email robbie.afcwc@gmail.com if they want to find out more about making a donation.

Amanda Winwood, Charity Development Manager for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust’s Your RWTC charity, said this kind gesture would be welcomed by patients and their families.

“Robbie is right – being in hospital in the run up to Christmas or on the big day itself can be really difficult for children and young people and donations such as this can really help cheer them up. Thank you to AFC Wolverhampton City and to everyone who supports this initiative,” she said.