First teamers from Colchester United's squad paid their annual Christmas visit to the Children's Ward at Colchester General Hospital on Tuesday afternoon.

Among the six first team regulars was Kevin Lisbie, the U's leading scorer this season with 10 goals, which included the winner in their last outing at the Weston Homes Community Stadium against Bristol Rovers.

The striker, who has been a near ever present since signing on loan in the summer, was joined by captain Magnus Okuonghae, Clive Platt, Paul Reid, Marc Tierney and Ben Williams.

"We were more than happy to go and visit the children," skipper Magnus said.

"The players like to try and get down to the hospital each year, so it was a pleasure to meet everyone and thank the hospital's staff for the good work that they do every day of the year."

Club mascot Eddie the Eagle also put in an appearance and managed to behave himself on this occasion, as he went around in his new look Santa outfit to meet and greet the children currently on the ward.

During the hour-long visit to the Children's Ward and adjoining Children's Day Unit, Eddie and the players became the first team to visit the hospital this year, handing out presents, chatting with the children and parents and signing autographs and photographs.

On top of their U's related gifts, the players also handed over a DVD player for the ward, as well as a portable DVD player for the children not able to make it from their beds to the day room, thanks to our friends at Bennetts Electrical.

They also took time to visit patients around the hospital, with many fans currently in residence at the medical facility just around the corner from the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Lynda Pearce, Matron for Children's Services, said: "The annual Christmas visit by players from Colchester United is one of the highlights of the year as far as the Children's Ward is concerned.

"I'm sure that the children, mums and dads, and staff are looking forward to meeting and congratulating the players on what's turning out to be a very good season.

"The football club have been loyal supporters of the hospital for many years and, once again, we would like to thank them for their generosity and for taking the time to visit us at what is a busy time of year for everyone."

Staff try to ensure that as many children as possible are able to go home for Christmas but, inevitably, some have to spend the whole holiday period in hospital, she added.

Children from all over north east Essex - the borough of Colchester, the district of Tendring and Halstead and the Colne Valley - are cared for on the 28-bed Children's Ward.