England Rugby star, Rosie Galligan, visited Lister Hospital in Stevenage last week to meet staff and give out gifts to children and young people on the children's ward.

Fresh from her World Cup victory in September, the Red Roses and Saracens team member wanted to bring some festive cheer to the hospital and see some of the projects that East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity funds to support the hospital. 

Rosie started her visit by meeting some of the young patients and staff on the children's ward, including one patient called Bree. 

Kelly Elliott, health play specialist said: "It was lovely to see Bree and the other children smile. Rosie's interaction with Bree was especially wonderful. The visit clearly made a positive impact on her wellbeing. Thank you, Rosie, for visiting us."

Rosie also met Zanzibar, the therapy dog, and Milly Stewart, a North Hertfordshire College student who has Down's syndrome, and currently on work experience on the children's ward. 

Milly said: "I was very excited to meet Rosie. She signed a T-shirt for me which I loved."

Rosie was also introduced to chief nurse, Theresa Murphy, who said: "It was a real treat to have this exceptional lady take the time and effort to support our charity, our children and our staff."

Eloise Huddleston, director of the charity that supports Lister Hospital, as well as Hertford County Hospital, New QEII Hospital and Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, said: "We want to thank Rosie for bringing a real buzz of excitement to Lister Hospital. It was great for her to meet our youngest patients and give them some gifts. 

"We showed her some of the projects the charity has funded, such as the sensory room, that really make a difference for young patients in our hospital.

"We also had some big rugby fans among the staff who were excited to have opportunity to meet her. She was happy to have lots of photos taken with everyone and give out signed mini rugby balls. She even let people try on her gold medal from the Rugby World Cup that she'd brought along. She made it a very special day. We can't wait for her to come again."