Patients at Croydon University Hospital got an early Christmas present last week when a few Premier League stars dropped by for a visit.

Crystal Palace Football Club's Scott Dann, Christian Benteke and Martin Kelly surprised people on the elderly care and children’s wards who were going to be spending Christmas in the hospital.

The three players chatted with patients with one life-long Palace supporter on the ACE ward - who didn't wish to be named - saying: “We don’t get to go to matches so much anymore so it’s been great to see the players close up again.

"My son used to work at the club and our grandchildren are all supporters too, so this visit has made my day.”

Young Eagles fans were also delighted to see their heroes up close and personal.

Jane Sithole-Sadler, who works at the Trust, said: “I’m so glad my grandson Ethan was able to come in wearing his Crystal Palace kit and meet one of the players he watches on TV.

"He went home very happy and can show off the photos to his family on Christmas Day."