Stars of the Caledonia Gladiators women's team brought a smile to the faces of young patients during a visit to a Glasgow hospital. 

Captain Erin McGarrachan led her teammates on a festive visit to Glasgow Children's Hospital where they chatted to youngsters and their families and handed out presents.

Patients were given Gladiators merchandise including foam fingers, hats and clappers while they spoke to the team about their ambitions.

Glasgow Times: Ryan with Caledonia Gladiators players from left, captain Erin McGarrachan, Ariadna Pujol and Kian Omer-Jones during a visit to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children and Glasgow Children’s Hospital CharityRyan with Caledonia Gladiators players from left, captain Erin McGarrachan, Ariadna Pujol and Kian Omer-Jones during a visit to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children and Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity (Image: Gordon Terris)

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is the official charity partner of Caledonia Gladiators, and the club's owners, Steve and Alison Timoney, have been avid supporters of the charity for many years. 

Glasgow Times: Chrostopher with Caledonia Gladiators players from left, captain Erin McGarraghan, Ariadna Pujol and Kian Omer-Jones during a visit to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children and Glasgow Children’s Hospital CharityChrostopher with Caledonia Gladiators players from left, captain Erin McGarraghan, Ariadna Pujol and Kian Omer-Jones during a visit to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children and Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity (Image: Gordon Terris)

Erin, who is also sponsored by the Children's Hospital Charity, said: “It’s been a real pleasure meeting the families and chatting to the youngsters about what they’re wishing for from Santa.

"I know Christmas can be a hard time of year for these children and their families and it’s been so inspiring to see how positive these kids are despite the circumstances they’re facing.

“This charity is one that is held close to the hearts of everyone at Caledonia Gladiators - they do some incredible work to support young people and their families, which really aligns with our values as a team.

“Going around the hospital with my teammates and seeing the kid’s wee faces light up when we entered the room has been so heartwarming.”

Glasgow Times:

Kirsten Watson, the CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “It was an absolute joy to welcome Erin and the squad to the hospital. Caledonia Gladiators have such a strong community spirit, which really shone through during their time with us as they chatted and laughed with the children and families.

"It means so much to our young patients to know that people are thinking of them in hospital at Christmas, and we’d like to say a very special thank you to the players for taking time out of their busy schedule to visit.”