THE Manchester United men's and women's teams were saying Merry Christmas to three of the city's hospitals this week.
Unfortunately, the players were unable to visit the hospitals themselves, but instead the teams packed presents and sent messages to patients and staff at The Christie, Francis House Children's Hospice and Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.
In total, the players sent more than 2,000 Manchester United-themed presents including annuals, hats, scarves and shirts.
Reflecting on the importance of the tradition, Cristiano Ronaldo said: “It's unfortunate we couldn't visit the hospitals this year, as it's something I really liked to do when I was last here at Old Trafford.
"It’s so important we give our support to the young people at this special time of year and it’s an honour for me to be a part of this again."
And David Ireland, chief executive at Francis House Children's Hospice, stressed the tradition's importance to patients and staff alike.
He said: "It's been a difficult year, so to know people are thinking of us, not just of the families but of the staff too, is really important.
"It's not been an easy time. Everyone is working under a lot of anxiety and stress, but these presents give us that little bit of pleasure and a lift just when we need it, right before Christmas."
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