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Squad in annual Christmas visits

AFC Bournemouth’s players and staff made their special annual Christmas visits to Poole Hospital and Julia’s House on Monday afternoon.

The first team playing squad were split in to two groups across both venues. Club captain Simon Francis led one group at Poole Hospital, with vice captain Andrew Surman heading the group at Julia’s House.

As well as the players, Eddie Howe, Jason Tindall and other members of the Cherries backroom staff were also present throughout.

Across the two venues the players met patients and staff, handed out a range of Christmas presents, posed for photographs and signed autographs.

Speaking during the appearance at Julia's House, manager Howe said: “I just think the interaction between players, kids and parents is a really special thing and there's nothing quite like it.

"The players express themselves in a different way, which we rarely see, and, for me personally, it's great to try and make a difference in such a small way."

Midfielder Lewis Cook added, "It's nice to see but it's also sad at the same time. A lot of kids are really ill here, but it's nice to come and give a bit back.

A full gallery of the players’ Christmas visit to Poole Hospital and Julia’s House can be viewed above.