Santa bikers treat young patients at UHDB to a festive visit
Young patients who may not be able to celebrate Christmas at home this year were treated to a special festive visit over the weekend (Saturday 16 December) by bearded bikers dressed as Santa Clause.
Patients at Queen's Hospital Burton and Royal Derby Hospital were visited by 30 motorcyclists, representing local charity me&dee, who decorated their bikes and dressed in Christmas outfits while handing out gifts and posing for pictures to help spread the festive spirit.
Jill Matthews, Chief Officer of Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, said the visitors brought a smile to all who saw them riding along:
"When a young person is poorly and in hospital at this time of year it's especially tough for them and their families. Fundraisers like me&dee and the Santa bikers with their gift donations can make a difficult time a little bit brighter and they certainly bring a smile to everyone who sees them. I would like to thank them for thinking of us and putting our patients at the heart of their plans this Christmas."
Maria Hanson MBE, CEO and Founder of the me&dee charity, said the bikers have been keen to visit the hospital for a while and hoped they were able to spread joy among the young patients.
Maria said: "This is amazing for us as a charity, to be able to work with Gary and Kelly and the team of Santa bikers for our first of what we hope will be an annual ride out to UHDB.
"We hope the sight of all the bikes lit up, and the Santa's carrying in lots of gifts, will bring some comfort to those in hospital."