NEWPORT Gwent Dragons players made a surprise visit to St David’s Hospice for the hospice’s annual family day on Thursday.

A day before their friendly against the Cardiff Blues, hooker Hugh Gustafson, centre Adam Warren and flanker Nic Cudd made the short journey to Malpas to surprise more than 60 patients and their relatives.

The visit was as part of the hospice’s annual family day, which brings together relatives of families for a themed party featuring raffles and cake stalls selling various pastries.

This year’s theme had a vintage feel and Pontypool singing sensation Russell Jones entertained the crowds with his take on Rat Pack classics from the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Having raised £345 on the day, Helen Fessey, day hospice coordinator said “It was special to see so many people enjoying the facilities here.

“We would like to thank all involved for giving up their time to help out, attend and especially those kind people who donated raffle prizes.”

Dai Jenkins, commercial manager at Newport Gwent Dragons, said: “It was fantastic to support a great day. There was lots of positivity in the room.

“The players really enjoyed themselves. It was great to see so many smiling faces.

“The players got involved, taking photos and doing the raffle. It was just a shame we didn’t win any prizes!”

As well as meeting other families and drawing positivity from each other, those attending were able to see the range of facilities and services on offer at St David’s Hospice.

These include syringe drivers, nebulisers and TENS machines, and aromatherapy, therapeutic massage, reflexology, reiki and visualisation.

Supported by more than 500 volunteers, St David’s Hospice Care is committed to providing bespoke, individual ‘free’ care for all patients and their families.

For more information on the hospice, visit www.stdavidshospicecare.org