FATHER Christmas took a break from his busy schedule to deliver presents to children at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

The Independent Fundraisers of Worcester organised Santa's trip to the Riverbank Ward following a request from Sheena Maddison, a Play Specialist at the hospital.

Santa delivered 50 selection boxes in time for the ward's children's party being held this Tuesday, December 15.

The trip followed a successful one last Christmas, which has led to the fundraisers turning it into an annual event with support of sponsors Westlands Hyundai Worcester.

Kath Smith, from Independent Fundraisers, said: "It's never a good time to have to stay in hospital and more so over Christmas.

"We are really pleased to be able to donate these presents and hope all of the children in Riverbank get well soon.

"As a group we try to support our local community and we have a real soft spot for children especially at this time of year".

• The Independent Fundraisers of Worcester have also organised for Santa to be at Asda in Lowesmoor to raise money.

Father Christmas will be in the Counting House, the entrance of the store, collecting money for the Fort Royal Community Primary School.

Santa will be at the store on Saturday, December 12, Sunday, December 13, as well as the following weekend, December 19 and December 20.

Asda are further supporting the event by placing collection bottles on each of their tills on the days Santa is in store.