YOUNGSTERS being treated on York Hospital’s children’s ward were given an early Christmas surprise when Santa Claus arrived with a sack of presents.

The festive character put smiles on their faces when he dished out gifts donated by staff at Taps, a plumbers’ merchant based at Yorvale Business Park in York.

Among the children who met Santa was five-year-old Jake Barrett, from Holgate, who was recovering on the ward after having his tonsils and adenoids removed.

Jake’s mum Lisa said: “He hasn’t been out of bed, but as soon as I asked him if he wanted to stay in bed or come and see Santa, he was straight out of bed.” Jake, who was given a lion teddy bear and a box of chocolates, said: “I’m happy. It cheered me up.”

Ten-year-old Rosie Bonser, from Strensall, was admitted to York Hospital on Sunday with suspected appendicitis – but is still waiting for a diagnosis.

She said: “It was brilliant to meet Father Christmas, but I’m not allowed to eat the chocolates at the moment, so I’ll have to save them until I’m told I can have them.”

Anne Ganley, managing director of Taps, said: “At Taps we always do all we can to support local charities and people less fortunate than ourselves, especially at this time of year.

“We have organised Christmas visits to the children’s wards of hospitals across the North East for many years now and it is always extremely fulfilling when you see the little boys and girls’ eyes light up when they see Santa.”

Kim Pickersgill, directorate manager of child health at York Hospital, said: “We are delighted that staff from Taps visited York Hospital’s children’s ward and we really appreciate their support.

“It was a lovely surprise for the children when Santa arrived with his presents.”