Santa arrived early in Aberdeen yesterday to bring some festive cheer to north-east cancer and haematology patients.
The man in the red suit spent the morning at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary’s Anchor Unit and haematology care facility to hand out gifts and bring a touch of Christmas spirit to patients attending the unit.
Presents were handed over to patients, many of whom face being in hospital on Christmas Day rather than at home with their families.
Santa’s visit was arranged by Friends of Anchor, which funds the purchase of non-NHS-provided equipment for the Anchor unit and aims to provide additional care, comfort and support for Anchor patients.
Taqa also donated £2,500 of the funds which members of staff raised this year to purchase the Christmas gifts for the charity’s annual Santa visit.
Alastair Maclean, from Taqa, said: “Being part of the Santa visit is such a great opportunity for us to witness first-hand what a positive impact Friends of Anchor makes.
“We are delighted that a portion of the money we have raised this year can help make the patients’ time in hospital a little brighter, particularly at this time of year.”
Now in its ninth year, the Friends of Anchor Santa visit has become a much-anticipated event for both the staff and patients.
James Milne, chairman of Friends of Anchor, said: “We’re incredibly grateful that, every year, one of our corporate partners supports the annual gift giving.
“The Santa visit never fails to attract smiles and laughter around the wards and clinics at the Anchor Unit and adds a touch of Christmas magic which is truly wonderful to see.”