Army cadets from 4 Company, based in Romford, visited Tropical Lagoon Children’s Ward at Queen's Hospital to donate toys and arts and crafts to children spending Christmas in hospital.

The cadet’s detachment, from ages 12 to 18, reached out to King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity with a special request to bring festive cheer to young patients this Christmas.

The cadets were welcomed and thanked by staff members from the ward during their visit on Thursday 12 December.

Chantel Taylor, Play Specialist at Queen’s Hospital, said:

Visits like this make such a difference to our children in hospital. We’re so grateful for all the support, and it really helps bring some Christmas magic to their hospital experience.

Elisa Gjoka, 16, an army cadet, added:

We decided to donate because Christmas is a special time for everyone, especially for children. It’s really important to give back to children who may not be able to spend Christmas at home.

Lexie Thorne, 17, another army cadet, said:

I love being an army cadet, as it helps build your confidence. It’s also nice being able to do things like this and give back to the community.

The gifts were donated by the cadets, their families, and local supporters.

The children’s ward received more gifts from local radio stationTime 107.5FM after its annual ‘Give a Child a Christmas’ campaign.

Each year, the radio station encourages its listeners across Havering, Barking and Dagenham, and Redbridge to donate presents for underprivileged children.

These gifts were distributed to local charities, including the King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity.

On Friday 13 December, the charity collected the gifts. Ian Walker, Sales Manager at Time 107.5FM said:

It’s fantastic to be a part of giving gifts to so many children. Every gift helps put a smile on a child’s face at Christmas. The combined efforts of the Army Cadets and Time 107.5FM will help make this Christmas a little brighter for children in our hospitals.