CELTIC’S first-team stars visited Glasgow Children’s Hospital as the club’s foundation made a £10,000 donation to the charity.

Meeting the children at the hospital, as well as delivering the money raised, some of the Hoops players treated patients to a surprise yesterday.

The money handed over by Celtic FC Foundation will go towards improving medical equipment and play programmes, as well as family support services.

Captain Scott Brown said: “Myself and the rest of the players are delighted to come to the hospital and see the kids who really deserve our support.

“Christmas can be a really difficult time for so many children who are in hospital and of course their families. We hope that in some way we can bring some cheer and take their minds off things.

“As well as sending our sincere best wishes to all the children at the hospital we also thank all the staff who do such a great job all year round.

“We are also delighted to present this donation for £10,000 which we hope will be useful in supporting the fantastic work of such a great hospital.”

Around 168,000 babies, children and young people are treated at the hospital every year. Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity sits firmly at

the heart of the hospital, ­raising money to ensure that young patients and their families receive the best possible care.

Shona Cardle, chief executive, Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Christmas is such a difficult time for children in hospital, and for their families too.

“Today’s visit brought a lot of joy to our young patients, and we’re incredibly grateful to Celtic and Celtic FC Foundation for their support and generosity not just at ­Christmas time, but throughout the year.”