YOUNGSTERS preparing to spend their Christmas in hospital received a double treat yesterday, when they were visited by stars of the stage and sporting worlds.
Members of the cast from Darlington Civic Theatre's pantomime, Cinderella, were first to arrive at Darlington Memorial Hospital's children's ward at lunchtime.
Ugly sisters Nigel Ellacott and Peter Robbins, Fairy Godmother Judy Buxton, and Prince Charming Sally Taylor, were joined by Jo Sherwood, who plays Dandini, and Kelly Morris, who has the starring role of Cinderella.
The cast members were transported in full costume to the hospital by stagecoach.
During the afternoon, Middlesbrough Football Club's new head coach, Terry Venables, and player Neil Maddison, who is a native of Darlington, paid the children a visit.
The Boro pair distributed toys and chocolates which had been donated by supporters of the club to club mascot Roary the Lion's Christmas appeal.
Manager Bryan Robson and other players visited North Tees and South Cleveland hospitals with similar gifts.
Mr Venables said: "I understand visiting the hospitals to give out gifts to poorly children has become something of a tradition at Middlesbrough in recent years.
"It's a smashing idea, and one I'm sure goes down very well with the kids involved."
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