CHRISTMAS came a little early for children at Derian House after they received a surprise visit from the Bolton Wanderers squad.

Players turned up to deliver presents, sign autographs and chat to poorly youngsters at the Chorley-based hospice yesterday afternoon.

They were given a guided tour of the hospice grounds and learned about the new care wing, which will be built next year.

For goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, a father of three, it was an emotional experience on what was his first visit to Derian House.

“It is great to be able to get a smile out of the kids because it is not easy for them and their families at this time of year,” he said. “It is nice to be able to help.

“You have to respect the work they do here. It makes you remember that life it not always fair. Hopefully, we can help to raise the profile and try and raise some more money for them.”

Defenders Gretar Steinsson and Jlloyd Samuel became cameramen for the day, raising some laughs with some mock interviews with the children.

“It gets you back on the ground if, like me, you have got a family,” Steinsson said. “It makes you realise how lucky you are.

“The people here work really hard to make sure these kids have a great life, so if we can give something back to them then I’m all for it.”