Newcastle United player Craig Bellamy marked the opening of the children's x-ray department, at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) by cutting a ribbon yesterday.

He then met children at the hospital during a ward tour.

The visit was arranged as part of Newcastle United's ongoing relationship with the Fleming Children's Trust, of which it is a patron.

Providing care and support for children in hospital, as well as after-care support, the trust caters for Newcastle's General, RVI and Freeman hospitals.

Bill Lynch, trust chairman, said: "We were delighted that Craig was able to give up his time to assist us. He has already supported us in a number of ways."

Earlier this season, the former Coventry player formed a close relationship with RVI kidney transplant patient Indie Singh, who later died.

Liz Hunter, superintendent paediatric radiographer, said: "Yesterday was a very special occasion, and with Craig coming along, there were some very excited children."