Two burly rugby players caused a real scrum when they popped into Ealing Hospital with some teddies for the children.

Ealing Trailfinders first XV players Gavin Curry and Chris Kinloch helped get the Christmas festivities started at the hospital’s paediatric department on Wednesday last week (4).

The pair were joined by Father Christmas and Trailfinders’ mascot Bruno the Bear to give out club teddy bears to the children, many of whom are fighting serious illnesses.

Paediatric matron Carole Dinsley said: “It was great for the club to send the players and mascot along to meet the children and the families. They helped put a smile on the faces of all the children and everyone else in what is a special time of the year.

“Some of these children and families are going through a tough time as they fight their illness, so even a simple visit from some friendly faces helps them massively.”

Chris Kinloch added: “It was great to get down and meet the kids. Some of them are fighting some truly serious illnesses, but you wouldn’t have guessed from the spirit they showed.

“Hopefully we can help put a smile on their faces at what must be a tough time for their families, especially at a time of year when we take for granted that we'll be spending time with our own loved ones.”

Both players have been involved in Ealing’s first season in the Greene King IPA Championship. Vice-captain Kinloch has already grabbed two tries, while Curry has continued his sterling work in the second row, having been part of the side that won promotion from the National League 1.

Ealing’s next match is a home British and Irish Cup fixture against Moseley today (Friday) before they close out the year with the visit of Bristol on December 21.