Famous visitors bring festive cheer to children's ward

PATIENTS of the children's ward at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, have today experienced a magical time.

They were overjoyed when the newly-appointed manager of the Mayo senior football team, Stephen Rochford, and three of his players - Lee Keegan, Andy Moran and Donal Vaughan - dropped in for a visit to bring festive joy to young fans in their hospital beds.

It was a lovely gesture, much appreciated by the children and their parents.

The football delegation stayed for over an hour chatting with the children and having photographs taken with them.

They also answered questions about Mayo football and expressed the hope that 2016 will be a memorable year for the squad.

Alison Laredo was there to capture the moment for our readers.