SIXTEEN televisions and hundreds of pounds worth of toys were among the gifts delivered to the children’s wards at the Royal Gwent Hospital by Newport County AFC players yesterday.

Supporters, players and staff at the club came together to raise funds to support the children’s wards after learning that they were in desperate need of TVs and DVDs for children and teenagers to pass the hours whilst in their care.

Club staff raised enough cash to buy three TVs and when their efforts filtered out to the players, board of directors, supporters groups and commercial companies, helped to boost the number to sixteen TV/DVD combi’s a week later.

The players also delivered over £700's worth of toys and selection boxes collected by Asda customers from their Pill store and Newport Freemasons.

Norman Parselle, community development officer, who was instrumental in organising the visit said: “To raise the amount of money we did in such a small amount of time just shows the great community spirit we have at Newport County AFC.”

Captain Mark Byrne added: “It has been great that we have been able to put a smile on the faces of the children and staff at this time of the year.”

First team coach Mike Flynn said: “It’s sad to see a lot of them going through a tough time but if we can give them five minute’s respite and put a smile on their face then it’s worthwhile.”

The club’s chief executive, Jason Turner said: “It is great to see the community spirit within the club, the supporters have only just pulled donations together in order to take over the Football Club.”

“But they have once again gone above and beyond in order to support the local children’s wards, so many organisations have come together to make this possible.”