Santa's Tallest Helpers

Pro basketball team Caledonia Gladiators paid a special visit to young patients at Glasgow Children’s Hospital before Christmas to lend a hand to staff and donate gifts on the ward.

The entire men’s squad at Scotland’s professional basketball franchise chatted to children, their families and staff during the visit to the hospital, and donated foam fingers and Gladiators hats to patients on the wards.

During the visit players, including 6ft11 centre Clifton Moore Jr and 6ft10 captain Fahro Alihodzic, were on hand to assist staff in decorating higher areas of the hospital's Christmas Tree.

Team captain Fahro said: “Christmas can be such a hectic time of year but visiting Glasgow Children’s Hospital really put things into perspective. As a team we loved spending time with the children and their families who were all so positive despite the circumstances they’re facing.

“We’re continually amazed by the incredible work of the charity to support young people and their families so to lend a hand to the nursing staff and spend an evening on the ward was a pleasure.”

Kirsten Watson, CEO, Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity said: “We were thrilled to have another Caledonia Gladiators team visit the hospital this Christmas. The Caledonia Gladiators' remarkable community spirit was evident yet again as they engaged with the children, families, and young adults.

"Their presence holds significant value for our patients, especially during the Christmas season. We express our sincere gratitude to the players for generously allocating time from their busy schedules to bring joy and support to those in need at Scotland's busiest children's hospital."

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is the official charity partner of Caledonia Gladiators while it additionally sponsors men’s team captain Fahro Alihodzic.

Steve and Alison Timoney, owners of the basketball franchise, have been avid supporters of the charity for many years, making the partnership one that is close to the hearts of all at the club.