Housebuilders donate Christmas gifts to children in hospital

A house building firm has donated a selection of gifts to support Care for Kids’ initiative – to ensure everyone on the children’s ward at North Devon District Hospital this Christmas receives a present.

Vistry Homes, which builds Bovis and Linden properties, is creating new homes locally at Bay View in Northam.

The team arranged a collection point and donated a selection of presents including board games, books, dolls, action figures, cars, musical instruments, building blocks, puzzles and water bottles.

Care for Kids help families in the area and support North Devon District Hospital’s children’s ward with enhancements.

Frances Greenaway, a play specialist at North Devon District Hospital and a volunteer at Care for Kids, commented: “This can be a difficult time of year for families in hospital as everyone would prefer to be in their own home over Christmas. We’re passionate about ensuring the magic of Christmas continues and so we’re very grateful for all the donations we’ve received from the local community.”

Beverley Rickard, area sales manager at Vistry South West, said: “Staff and residents donated toys and the children’s ward team will now be organising the presents, matching them with individuals and distributing them to ensure everyone receives a gift.”

Beverley added: “We were amazed to see the incredible enhancements Care for Kids had made at the hospital: the gorgeous murals, beach-themed storage units, games consoles for older children and the artwork all transformed the hospital into a colourful and welcoming place for little ones. We’re pleased to support a fantastic local charity and to help spread joy at a special time of year.”

For further information on Care for Kids visit www.careforkidsnorthdevon.org.uk