PATIENTS at St Rocco’s enjoyed a birthday treat when players from the Warrington Wolves first team paid them a visit.

The Warrington Wolves Community Foundation is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and with the hospice turning 30 at the same time, it was the perfect opportunity to get together.

The rugby stars met with patients from the day inpatients unit and posed for photos with blushing nurses and volunteers before touring the hospice and spending time chatting to patients.

Sister Caroline Kay said: “We really enjoyed welcoming the team into the hospice and they certainly raised a smile amongst patients and staff alike."

Karl Fitzpatrick, football and welfare manager for Warrington Wolves, said it was fantastic for the players to visit such an 'inspirational' place.

He added: "It is eye opening what the nurses and staff do on a daily basis and the difference they make to people’s lives.

"The visit was a great way to celebrate our charitable foundation’s 10th birthday and St Rocco’s 30th birthday and we hope it is the start of a lasting friendship.”

St Rocco's celebrates 30 years since their opening day next Saturday with a special open day from 1 to 4pm.

Read more in Thursday's Warrington Guardian.