Everton Women bring smiles this Christmas

Everton FC Women players brought Christmas cheer to families at Claire House Liverpool during a heartwarming visit to West Derby.

Donning blue Santa hats, players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik spent time with some of the babies, children and young adults our charity supports.

They also posed for photographs and joined in fun activities including Christmas-themed crafts and icing gingerbread biscuits.

The footballers chatted to parents about the difference the hospice makes to seriously and terminally ill children, and their families, across Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales.

Speaking about the visit, midfielder Clare Wheeler said she was really proud to be able to join the families at Claire House Liverpool.

She said: “We got to meet parents and kids who attend Claire House and got a brief insight into what Christmas is like for them.

"Everton is definitely large on the community and giving back to those that support us so heavily.

"Christmas is the time of giving and small gestures like this means a lot. I am really proud to be able to come here with Everton and give back to those people.”

Defender Elise Stenevik added: "I really enjoyed myself. We got to decorate some gingerbread and speak to some parents and children. It was nice to meet new people with whom you would not usually interact, and it was fun.

"We found it most fun to give out the Everton Santa Claus hats. Many of them were Evertonians so that was really nice to see.

"The ones that support Liverpool, we tried to make them support Everton instead!"

Claire Jones from Claire House thanked Everton FC Women for bringing their festive cheer.

She said: "It really was a highlight for our families.

"All the babies, children and young adults attending had a gorgeous time colouring tree decorations and decorating gingerbread.

"Christmas time can be incredibly tough for many of our families, but moments like this visit create memories that lift everyone's spirits.

“We are so grateful to the women’s team for their generosity and kindness in bringing gifts and spreading Christmas cheer at Claire House Liverpool.”